US CENTCOM says there are currently over 70 tankers that US forces are preventing from entering or leaving Iranian ports; these commercial ships have the capacity to transport over 166 million barrels of Iranian oil worth an estimated USD 13bln-plus.

The U.S. CENTCOM report of over 70 tankers being prevented from entering or leaving Iranian ports signals a significant geopolitical tension that could impact global oil supply dynamics. This blockade not only raises concerns about immediate oil prices due to supply disruptions but also has implications for currencies and markets sensitive to energy costs, particularly the USD and broader risk sentiment. Investors should monitor how this situation evolves, as it could lead to elevated volatility in oil prices and related assets.