Two state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) vessels were attacked transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday evening; the UAE blamed Iran, which made no immediate comment. Kpler recorded nine transits on Thursday, up from five Wednesday but below the August average of 12, and no visible crossings early Friday — compared with more than 130 ships daily before the February war. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US plans additional financial measures "next week," while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the naval blockade can be maintained indefinitely. Brent and WTI were up slightly at about $87 and $81 a barrel.
Context
The near standstill extends the attacks reported days earlier, and follows the UAE's earlier claim that Iran had struck an ADNOC vessel.
