Three tankers made their way through the Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, according to shipping data from LSEG and Kpler. The Panama-flagged Peace Gulf is heading to Hamriyah port in the UAE, following a new route designated by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). They have instructed all vessels to use this route, which passes between the islands of Larak and Hormuz.
Earlier movements included two US-sanctioned tankers, the Rich Starry and the Elpis, which navigated the strait without intending to dock in Iran, thus avoiding the effects of a recent US blockade.
US Naval Blockade
On Monday, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) initiated a blockade of maritime traffic related to Iranian ports, a directive following a presidential order from the Trump administration. This blockade affects vessels from every nation entering or leaving Iranian ports, which includes those along the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
Iran has reacted strongly, stating it could target ports in neighboring Gulf countries in retaliation. The situation escalated after the US and Israel conducted attacks on February 28, leading to Iran’s decision to restrict most international shipping. The IRGC declared the strait effectively closed and warned that ships that attempt to pass through could face severe consequences.
Navigating the Strait
Before recent conflicts, the Strait of Hormuz had two main lanes for ships, operating like a divided highway. After the escalation of tensions, ships were directed to a new navigation plan due to risks like anti-ship mines in the area, which has continuously increased concerns about safety.
Dramatic Drop in Ship Traffic
Since the onset of the conflict, traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has plummeted by over 95%. From February 28 to April 12, only 279 ships crossed through, compared to an average of 100 daily before the hostilities began. A ceasefire declared on April 8 did not significantly improve the situation, with only 45 ships transiting since.
The ongoing conflict has left hundreds of tankers stranded. This disruption has led to a 20% cut in global oil and gas supply—marking one of the largest fuel supply interruptions in history—and has dramatically increased oil prices by about 50%.
Attacks on Ships
Data from Kpler highlights that 22 ships were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz since the outbreak of conflict. The locations of these attacks are troubling: eight occurred in UAE waters, while six happened in Oman, with additional incidents in Iraqi and Qatari waters, among others.
Experts emphasize that the situation remains precarious. Shipping companies and oil markets are on edge, trying to navigate through ongoing tensions. A recent survey found that more than 75% of industry professionals believe the risk of further attacks will disrupt shipping routes, affecting global energy supplies even more.
With the Strait so critical to international shipping—carrying about a fifth of the world’s oil and gas—these developments are significant. As tensions rise, the need for clear and safe navigation routes becomes crucial not only for the shipping industry but also for the global economy.
For additional insights on military and shipping operations in volatile regions, check the US Central Command for official updates and data.
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