Strait of Hormuz attacks hit record high as oil stays above $100 a barrel

Oil prices remain above $100 a barrel as attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz hit a record high, with 24 vessels struck in the two weeks to October 11, the most intense period of the conflict since it began in February. The escalation has forced President Donald Trump to lift sanctions on Russia to release diesel exports ahead of US midterm elections, while experts warn the persistent chaos threatens global energy supplies and food security. Oil flows through the strait, which carries a fifth of the world's oil and seaborne gas, plummeted to 2.9 million barrels on October 11, their lowest this month. Analysts say Iran has diversified its tactics, using missiles, drones, mines, and small boats, with at least 25 seafarers killed near the strait. The International Monetary Fund warns prolonged war poses the biggest risk to Middle East and Central Asian economies, while disrupted fertiliser shipments could trigger food crises in Asia and Africa.