Crude exports bypassing Hormuz surged in September, yet oil prices remain high, sparking concerns that a secret fee may be behind the surge.[8007761] Gulf crude exports returned to pre-war levels in September, with producers increasingly relying on alternative routes and ship-to-ship transfers to bypass Hormuz.[7944308] Iranian exports remain below the pre-war average, despite a recent surge in oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz.[8007761][7944308] The US-supervised route in Hormuz is reportedly 'negligible' according to an IRGC commander, casting doubt on Iran's claims of control over the vital oil shipping lane.[7939805] As oil flows through the US-supervised route in Hormuz are considered 'negligible', Iran's wartime leverage remains a topic of debate among experts.[8007761][7939805] The Return of Middle East Oil highlights the complex dynamics at play in the region, as oil exports and tensions between Iran and its allies continue to shape the global energy market.[7873422]