Tanker Traffic in the Strait of Hormuz
Following the outbreak of war between the United States, Israel, and Iran on February 28, tankers carrying liquefied gas and crude oil have departed the Persian Gulf and successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz. As of Monday, May 29, several vessels have already transited this critical waterway, which plays a vital role in global energy supplies. The strait is a key chokepoint for international oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Among the tankers that have crossed the Strait of Hormuz is the Fuwairit, flagged in the Bahamas and owned by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. This vessel loaded liquefied gas at the Ras Laffan port in Qatar around March 28 and is currently en route to Pakistan, where it is expected to arrive on Tuesday. Another ship, the Al Rayyan, has also exited the strait. It took on cargo at Ras Laffan and was last recorded in the Persian Gulf on May 22, heading toward China with a delivery scheduled for June 27.
Maritime Shipping Challenges
Additionally, the supertanker Eagle Verona, which is transporting Iraqi crude to China, left the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday after a three-month layover. This marks a resurgence in regional maritime activity, where prior to the conflict, between 125 and 140 vessels passed through daily. Despite this resumption of traffic, around 20,000 seafarers remain stranded on hundreds of ships in the Persian Gulf, highlighting the ongoing severity and duration of the crisis.
Meanwhile, Iran is negotiating with Oman to establish a customs fee system for commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. However, this initiative has drawn opposition from the United States, potentially complicating the regional situation. The strait is a vital artery for global trade, handling roughly one-fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, underscoring its strategic importance to the global economy.
The revival of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz amid the conflict reflects efforts to engage international markets in stabilizing energy supply chains.
Nevertheless, tensions remain high, as a significant number of ships and crew members are still blocked, which could lead to further disruptions in the region. Iran's talks with Oman over customs duties may also reshape trade dynamics in this strategic water corridor, creating additional hurdles for all parties involved in international commerce.