Empty Tankers Heading to US to Load Oil and Gas, Says Trump

USA - Ekhbary News Agency

President Donald Trump stated on April 11 that a large fleet of empty oil tankers is currently heading towards the United States to be loaded with oil and gas for international transport. "Massive numbers of completely empty oil tankers, some of the largest anywhere in the World, are heading, right now, to the United States to load up with the best and “sweetest” oil and gas anywhere in the World," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. This announcement coincides with crucial diplomatic efforts, as senior US and Iranian officials met on April 11 in Islamabad, facilitated by Pakistani intermediaries, to discuss the ongoing conflict that began on February 28. The war, initiated by US-Israeli attacks on Iran, has expanded with Iranian forces striking neighboring countries. Earlier in the week, Trump had urged Iran not to impose fees on tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway that has faced severe shipping disruptions since the war began, leading to unprecedented impacts on global energy supplies. Crude oil futures have surged following the conflict's escalation and the strait's closure. US oil has begun trading at a premium compared to the global benchmark, Brent. On April 10, US crude oil settled at $96.57 per barrel, while Brent was priced at $95.20.

Market analysts suggest that while Trump's statement may be viewed favorably from an American perspective, the primary focus for investors remains on the ongoing peace talks between the US and Iran. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, even with the current diplomatic engagements, could take months to resolve, potentially sustaining demand for US oil. However, the actual realization of increased tanker traffic to the US will depend on the outcomes of these negotiations and the broader geopolitical stability.

Ekhbary News Agency