According to BBC Verify's analysis of UK maritime agency data, 12 vessels were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding areas between October 5 and 11, marking the highest weekly total since the start of the US-Iran war. As the number of attacks increased, oil exports through the strait slowed from 15 million barrels/day at the end of September to 12.6 million barrels/day on October 13, significantly lower than the pre-war level of 17 million barrels/day. Experts believe Iran is attempting to strengthen its control over the waterway by attacking ships.