Nearly 90 Ships Pass Through Strait Of Hormuz Since US-Iran War Started

Ship movements through the Strait of Hormuz have not stopped entirely despite the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

Around 90 vessels, including oil tankers, have still managed to pass through the waterway, even as most commercial traffic remains suspended and security risks continue to rise.

The strait, which carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil, has seen a sharp drop in traffic since early March after attacks on ships increased tensions in the region. Movement has not completely stopped, but it has become limited and selective.

Data from Lloyd’s List Intelligence shows that at least 89 ships passed through the strait between March 1 and 15, including 16 oil tankers. Before the conflict, around 100 to 135 vessels used to pass through daily.

Many of the vessels that made the journey were operating as “dark” ships, meaning they switched off their tracking systems to avoid being monitored under Western sanctions. A large number of these ships are believed to be linked to Iran.

Even with the risks, Iran has exported more than 16 million barrels of oil since the start of March, according to data from Kpler. Analysts say export volumes have remained steady, showing that the country is still managing to keep its oil trade going.

At the same time, around 20 vessels have been attacked in or near the strait since the conflict began. These incidents have forced many global shipping companies to stay away from the route.

The impact has been felt in the oil market, with crude prices rising above $100 per barrel.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most important routes for global energy trade, connecting oil-producing countries in the Gulf to markets around the world.

Some ships linked to India and Pakistan have still managed to pass through after diplomatic efforts.

Two India-flagged LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, operated by the Shipping Corporation of India, crossed the strait around mid-March.

India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said their passage was made possible after talks with Iran.

A Pakistan-flagged tanker, Karachi, also passed through, although officials did not confirm the exact route it took.

Analysts believe Iran is allowing only certain vessels to pass under tight control. Ships are thought to be moving close to the Iranian coast, possibly with some level of protection or understanding.

More than one-fifth of the ships that crossed were linked to Iran, while others had connections to China and Greece. Some vessels reportedly declared themselves as China-linked or said they had Chinese crew to lower the risk of being targeted.

The United States has asked allies to send naval forces to secure the route and bring oil prices down. At the same time, Washington has allowed some Iranian oil shipments to continue to avoid a bigger supply shock.

China remains the biggest buyer of Iranian oil, taking advantage of lower prices due to sanctions.

Experts say the strait is not completely closed but is working in a limited way. Only selected ships are being allowed through, especially those linked to Iran or those backed by diplomatic talks.

References: TOI, telegraphindia

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