Venezuela crude exports soar in 2026

The overthrowing of President Maduro by the US, the installation of a more US-friendly regime, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz from March 1st, have all contributed to Venezuela’s seaborne crude exports more than doubling this year. Signal Ocean data has reported that Venezuelan crude liftings have risen for six consecutive months, climbing…

Hormuz reopening hits bumps in the road

US and Iranian officials arrived in Switzerland on Sunday June 21st for talks. Continuing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, despite frequent announcements of a ceasefire, led to Iran stating that the Strait of Hormuz had been closed. The US, meanwhile, said that it remained open. The physical evidence from AIS and specialist company observations was…

Qatar brings empty LNG ship into Persian Gulf

In a significant display of confidence in at least a short-term period when travel through the Strait of Hormuz can be deemed safe, Qatar has brought an empty LNG tanker back into the Persian Gulf for the first time since the war in Iran began at the end of February. The Al Hamla (IMO 9337743)…