Amid the ongoing Iran conflict, where Iran has restricted Strait of Hormuz access to non-US/Israeli-linked ships, at least eight vessels—including three Iran-linked tankers—passed through on Tuesday, the first day of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports announced by President Donald Trump. Shipping data shows no interruptions, despite US claims of no breaches.
The US blockade followed failed peace talks in Pakistan. Previously, in early April, Japanese, French, and Omani 'friendly' vessels transited under Iran's policy, as covered in this series.
Data from MarineTraffic indicates vessels like the Panama-flagged 'Peace Gulf' tanker (typically carrying Iranian naphtha, bound for UAE), previously sanctioned 'Murlikishan', and 'Rich Starry' (with 250,000 barrels methanol) passed through. Five others, including chemical tankers and 'Ocean Energy', also transited.
US Central Command reported six vessels ordered back to Iranian ports, which complied, claiming no breaches in the first 24 hours. Humanitarian aid is exempt.
China's foreign ministry called the blockade 'dangerous and irresponsible'. Genoa University's Professor Fabrizio Cotica noted US warships in the Gulf of Oman compel course changes rather than attacks.
