Kuwait Crude Halt: In April, Kuwait exported zero crude oil for the first time in 30 years, causing a stir in the global oil market. This is believed to be due to rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Kuwait Crude Halt: Amid rising tensions in the Gulf region, alarming news has emerged. According to reports from tanker trackers, Kuwait did not export a single barrel of crude oil during April 2026. This is the first time this has happened in the last three decades. If this news is officially confirmed, it will be the first time since the end of the Gulf War in 1991 that Kuwait's monthly crude oil exports have been zero.

The monitoring group, posting on the social media platform X, reported that Kuwait did not export any crude oil in April. However, oil production in the country continues. According to the report, Kuwait is storing some of its oil production, while the rest is being converted into refined products and exported.

What is the reason for the stoppage of exports?

• According to the report, disruption in regional shipping routes could be the reason for this.
• Also, increasing tension in the Strait of Hormuz is being considered a major reason.

Qatar appeals to Iran.

Meanwhile, Qatar has urged Iran to abide by international law and the UN Charter. Qatar said all countries should exercise restraint to reduce regional tensions and maintain stability in the Middle East.

Warning on the Strait of Hormuz

According to the Qatari Foreign Ministry, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a call from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. During the conversation, the Iranian Foreign Minister clearly stated that freedom of navigation is non-negotiable and that closing the Strait of Hormuz could pose a serious threat to the region and the world.

Increased US activities

Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that over the past 20 days, the US has diverted 48 ships in the Persian Gulf, specifically the Strait of Hormuz. The US Navy ship USS New Orleans is deployed in the Arabian Sea and is monitoring activities in the region.

Meanwhile, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, stated that Iran's recent diplomatic proposal, sent to the US through Pakistan, aims to de-escalate tensions between the two countries and establish lasting peace. He added that Iran is prepared to deal with any situation through dialogue.