Twenty vessels pass through Hormuz despite US naval blockade: WSJ
More than 20 commercial vessels have passed through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours despite a United States naval blockade targeting Iranian ports.
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported, citing two US officials, that over 20 ships passed. However, the publication later also reported that eight vessels were stopped from passing the waterway.
The development indicates a gradual return of maritime movement through one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, although overall shipping traffic remains significantly lower than pre-conflict levels.
US officials confirmed that cargo ships, tankers, and container vessels travelling to and from the Persian Gulf have recently transited the strait, as per WSJ. However, the number of vessels remains a fraction of the usual traffic due to security concerns during the ongoing tensions involving Iran.
The report noted that some vessels have switched off their transponders to reduce the risk of potential Iranian attacks. Maritime activity had slowed sharply earlier as fears of sea mines and attacks deterred shipping companies from navigating the narrow passage.
Meanwhile, US forces have initiated operations to remove sea mines from the waterway. The mission follows the passage of two US warships earlier this week in what Washington described as a freedom of navigation operation intended to reassure commercial shipping and restore confidence in the route.
The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly 20% of global oil shipments, making any disruption to the route a significant risk for international energy markets.
The blockade, ordered by US President Donald Trump after talks with Iran in Pakistan failed to yield a breakthrough, came into effect earlier this week.
The US military clarified that the blockade is limited to ships entering or leaving Iranian ports. United States Central Command said vessels travelling to non-Iranian destinations are still allowed to pass through the strait.
“US forces are supporting freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports," it added.
CENTCOM also stated that eight merchant ships had complied with US instructions and turned back, though no direct interdictions have been reported.
Data from maritime tracking firm Kpler, showed that at least three vessels crossed the strait shortly after the blockade began, including a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier and a Comoros-flagged tanker that had departed Iranian ports, as per News18.
Diplomatic efforts to ease tensions are ongoing. UN Secretary General António Guterres said discussions between the US and Iran could resume soon.
In parallel, foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Pakistan are expected to meet their Turkish counterpart to discuss proposals presented to Tehran.
The second round of US-Iran peace talks are likely to be held on Thursday, April 16.