Despite the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz following the ceasefire, global shipping operations are unlikely to return to normal immediately, with trade experts warning of prolonged disruptions across supply chains.
According to industry estimates, more than 2,000 vessels remain stranded in the region, creating a backlog that could take months to clear, reported the 24NewsHD TV channel on Wednesday.
Analysts say the sudden convergence of hundreds of ships at Gulf ports is expected to place immense logistical pressure on port infrastructure, slowing down cargo handling and delaying deliveries worldwide. The ripple effects are likely to impact global trade, with supply chain recovery projected to take several months.
Amid these developments, the White House on Wednesday described the ceasefire with Iran as a major victory for the United States, crediting President Donald Trump and the country’s armed forces for achieving key military objectives.
Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, in a statement on social media platform X, said the outcome reflected the exceptional capabilities of the US military.
Leavitt noted that President Trump had anticipated the military operation would last between four and six weeks and that its success exerted maximum pressure on Iran, ultimately leading to the truce. She emphasised that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, marked a significant strategic achievement.
However, Iranian authorities clarified that safe passage through the Strait would only be possible in coordination with their armed forces, underscoring the need for joint oversight even after the ceasefire. Both sides have reportedly agreed on operational protocols to ensure continued security and compliance in the region.
The situation highlights the fragile balance between military success and economic stability, as global markets and trade networks continue to grapple with the aftermath of the conflict in the Middle East.