Japanese, French and Omani vessels have crossed the Strait of Hormuz since Thursday, reflecting Iran's policy of allowing passage for ships it deems friendly without U.S. or Israeli links. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines' LNG tanker Sohar LNG became the first Japan-linked vessel to do so since the conflict began. Shipping data confirmed the transits amid ongoing tensions.
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz after U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran at the end of February, which widened the conflict. The strait handles about a fifth of global oil and LNG flows. Iran later stated it would permit transits by ships with no U.S. or Israeli links.
On Thursday, a container ship owned by France's CMA CGM transited the strait, changing its Automatic Identification System destination to "Owner France" before entering Iranian waters. Two very large crude carriers and one LNG tanker operated by Oman Shipping Management also exited the Gulf that day, according to MarineTraffic and LSEG data. The vessels switched off their AIS transponders during the crossing.
Japan's Mitsui O.S.K. Lines said on Friday that its co-owned LNG tanker Sohar LNG had crossed the strait, marking the first Japan-linked vessel and the first LNG carrier since the conflict began. A spokesperson declined to disclose when the passage occurred or whether negotiations were required. Another Mitsui-owned LPG tanker, Green Sanvi, left the Gulf via Iranian waters later that Friday.
As of early Friday, around 45 ships owned or operated by Japanese companies remained stranded in the region, according to Japan's transport ministry. Oil and commodities markets are watching for signs of resuming traffic.
