Crude oil tanker freight rates were reported to have reached record levels amid strong demand and a global shortage of available vessels, according to research by ING. Economist Rico Luman said the ongoing war in Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz were forcing tankers to travel longer distances and remain in use for longer, while the resumption of oil flows from the Middle East was creating additional demand. The Maritime Information Centre, led by the United States, reported that the previous week saw the highest number of attacks or attempted attacks on tankers since the war began, including intimidation by drones flying overhead. Ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz also fell to its lowest level in two months, with seven ships making the crossing, while oil exports through the strait declined.