Iran Continues Massive Oil Shipments to China Despite Strait of Hormuz Conflict
Story: written by Zara March 11,2026
Iran has been transporting large volumes of crude oil to China through the Strait of Hormuz, even as the ongoing war with U.S. and Israel disrupts global shipping in the strategically vital waterway.
Since the conflict began on February 28, Iran has moved at least 11.7 million barrels of oil through the strait, all reportedly bound for China, according to satellite-based vessel tracking data from TankerTrackers. Many tankers have turned off tracking systems, operating “dark” after Tehran warned of attacks on ships attempting passage.
Shipping intelligence firm Kpler estimates roughly 12 million barrels of crude have passed through the strait since the war started. Analysts say China remains the main destination, although confirming final delivery points has become increasingly difficult amid heightened tensions.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow corridor linking the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas. Shipping has slowed dramatically since the conflict erupted, with multiple Iranian attacks targeting vessels and causing fatalities.
Iran has also restarted shipments from the Jask oil terminal along the Gulf of Oman, providing an alternative route that bypasses the strait. While the terminal offers propaganda value for Tehran, logistical limitations mean loading a single supertanker can take up to ten days, compared with one to two days at the primary Kharg Island terminal.
China has simultaneously boosted its crude stockpiles, importing 2.16 million barrels per day in February, with shipments reaching 3.78 million barrels in the week of February 16. Customs data show Beijing’s imports in the first two months of 2026 were up 15.8% year-on-year, as the country strengthens reserves to hedge against potential energy supply shocks.
Global oil prices spiked to nearly $120 per barrel amid the crisis, though they later eased to around $84.9 for U.S. WTI crude and $88.9 for Brent. Analysts warn that ongoing Middle East tensions and restricted shipping through the strait continue to threaten energy markets worldwide.
