Gulf oil flows through Hormuz as U.S.-led pressure shifts the balance

An AP analysis argues that Iran’s grip on the Strait of Hormuz is loosening as U.S.-backed pressure and Gulf Arab oil shipments push flows through the waterway. Ships have skirted detection and transfers have obscured origins, aided by limited U.S. overwatch and sanctions leverage. Analysts say Iran’s oil output has fallen by about 800,000 barrels per day, with onshore storage rising to roughly 69 million barrels, while Gulf producers’ shipments and global demand help keep prices under $100 a barrel. A diplomatic breakthrough may be required soon to avert worsening energy security and prices.