U.S. Military's Covert Ship-to-Ship Transfers Keep Gulf Oil Flowing

The U.S. military has orchestrated secret ship-to-ship oil transfers in the Gulf to counteract the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Using drones, helicopters, and shuttling techniques, the operation ensures Gulf energy exports continue. Satellite imagery reveals extensive coordination, involving multiple international tankers and Gulf producers.

The United States military has initiated clandestine ship-to-ship oil transfers in the Gulf to maintain the flow of energy exports, sidestepping an Iranian blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Utilizing drones, helicopters, and shuttling methods, the operation is coordinated to assist convoys and tankers.

Reuters obtained satellite imagery showing 17 pairs of ships executing simultaneous oil transfers at two strategic locations, one off Fujairah, UAE, and the other near Oman's port of Sohar. A downed U.S. Apache helicopter reportedly participated in these operations before being downed by Iran.

The ongoing transfers, despite risks and inefficiencies, are crucial to counteract the blockade's global impact on oil supply and inflation. Under U.S. military supervision, the operation features staggered tanker departures, with Emirati and Kuwaiti companies among significant participants.