Strat of Hormuz Shipping Disrupted Amid US-Iran Conflict

The Strait of Hormuz has become one of the world's most hazardous waterways since March, when Iran began attacking shipping vessels as part of its pressure tactic in ceasefire talks with the United States. Despite the danger, a significant proportion of global oil trade still passes through the strait.

Shipping traffic never completely halted, but it did decrease significantly due to attacks by Iran and reports of mines in prewar shipping lanes.

An analysis of data from Global Fishing Watch showed that at least 84 ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz during two periods of conflict: from February 28 until April 7, when a ceasefire was announced, and following renewed attacks on July 6 and 7.

The majority of these vessels were not Iranian-owned, but rather came from countries such as the United Arab Emirates, India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Greece. Many of these ships carried oil or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers.

Experts point out that the primary motive for continuing to move goods via the Strait of Hormuz despite the threat is financial, with producers earning around 90% of their normal revenue by transiting the strait. The alternative routes have limited capacity and are also vulnerable to attacks and piracy in other regions.