Why did Saudi Aramco divert exports to the Red Sea port of Yanbu previously?

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Saudi Aramco Previously Diverted Exports to Yanbu Due to Iranian Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

Saudi Aramco previously rerouted its crude oil exports to the Red Sea port of Yanbu because the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, during its conflict with the United States and Israel, prevented vessels from accessing the Gulf. This diversion impacted Saudi crude export volumes, reducing them significantly over a three-month period.
Resumption of Ras Tanura Operations

Saudi Aramco has resumed crude loadings at its Ras Tanura terminal in the Gulf. This event marks the first time cargoes have been loaded from this facility in nearly four months, indicating a potential return to more normalized export operations. The resumption of activity at Ras Tanura, the world's largest oil port, follows the interim deal between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the conflict and reopening the vital waterway.
Impact of the Strait of Hormuz Blockade

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran created a significant impediment to maritime trade, particularly for oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies, which account for approximately one-fifth of global energy transit. Prior to the resumption of loadings at Ras Tanura, Saudi Aramco's last recorded cargo loading from this port for China occurred on March 8. The diversion to Yanbu was a direct consequence of the logistical challenges imposed by the blockade.
Reduction in Export Volumes

The conflict and subsequent blockade led to a substantial decrease in Saudi Arabia's crude oil exports. Data indicates that export volumes slumped to around 4 million barrels per day (bpd) in the three months preceding the resumption of Ras Tanura loadings, a notable decline from over 7 million bpd recorded in February. The capacity of the Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) involved in these operations is significant, with each capable of carrying approximately 2 million barrels of oil.

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Why did Saudi Aramco divert exports to the Red Sea port of Yanbu previously?

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