Iran defies sanctions to export millions of barrels through Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing conflict. About 90 ships have successfully crossed the critical waterway since early March, with Iran exporting over 16 million barrels despite Western sanctions and military tensions. Many vessels use dark transits to evade oversight, while China remains the primary buyer of Iranian oil due to geopolitical constraints on other markets. The strait, which normally handles roughly one-fifth of global crude oil supply, has seen traffic plummet from 100-135 daily passages to just 89 over two weeks. However, Iran's strategic control over this chokepoint has allowed the nation to maintain export volumes and preserve crucial revenue streams. Oil prices have spiked above $100 per barrel, prompting U.S. pressure on allies to reopen shipping lanes.
