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US Military Reports 1 Billion Barrels Moved Through Hormuz

By Markets Desk · 2026-09-20 · 1 min read
A large cargo ship navigates a narrow waterway between steep rocky cliffs.
Illustration: Tradingbird

U.S. Central Command reports over 1 billion barrels of crude oil transited the Strait of Hormuz in recent months. This volume was moved despite active conflict with Iran. U.S. forces provided protection for more than 2,000 commercial ship transits during this period.

U.S. Central Command reported that over 1 billion barrels of crude oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz in the last couple of months. Admiral Brad Cooper stated that American forces supported these movements while providing coordinated protection. The command confirmed that more than 2,000 commercial ships completed transits during this timeframe. Cooper described the current flow as a significant milestone in maintaining energy logistics.

The strait typically carries one-fifth of global oil consumption daily under normal conditions. Traffic has declined since the conflict began in late February. Kpler data shows daily vessel counts dropped from 11 to 6 in August. Recent reports indicate only three ships moved through the passage on a recent Wednesday. This figure is below the 10-day average of 17 vessels.

Fuel prices rise amid strategic tension

National average prices for regular unleaded gasoline increased from $4.31 to $4.43 in four days. Diesel prices rose by 42 cents over the same period. These increases follow the effective closure of the strait to Iranian exports. The administration maintains that the blockade prevents Iran from exporting any barrels of crude oil.

Political pressure mounts over energy costs

President Trump described higher gas prices as an inexpensive cost for the conflict. He made these remarks during a rally in North Carolina. A recent poll by New York Times and Siena University found 62 percent disapproval of his economic handling. The conflict has now lasted more than 200 days. Iran recently struck an oil tanker attempting to pass through the waterway.

Military logistics support oil transit

Admiral Cooper stated that crude, cargo, and LNG volumes are higher than at any point in the past six months. He emphasized that momentum is building despite ongoing strikes. The U.S. military continues to provide security for Gulf partners. These operations aim to keep critical energy routes open for global markets.

Based on reporting by The Hill, compiled by the Tradingbird desk.

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