Ship traffic through Strait of Hormuz rises sharply as vessels use US-backed corridor
Data shows a near-400% increase in ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz over the past two weeks, with most using a route authorized by the UN and supported by the United States, while Iran’s control of the waterway appears to be weakening.
Ship movements through the Strait of Hormuz have surged dramatically, with nearly 200 vessels recorded last week, up from 150 the week before and 40 two weeks earlier, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations Center. The increase brings overall traffic to roughly 20% of pre-conflict levels, a waterway through which about one-fifth of global seaborne oil normally passes.
Maritime intelligence firm Kpler reports that more than 80% of liquid cargoes transiting the strait in the last fortnight have taken the Omani route – a channel authorized by the International Maritime Organization and backed by the United States, which Iran does not recognize – or have proceeded without broadcasting their positions. "It increasingly looks like Iran has at least partially lost control of the strait," said Homayoun Falakshahi, head of crude oil analysis at Kpler, in an interview with CNN. Dan Pickering, founder of Pickering Energy Partners, added that the Omani route "makes the most sense" for vessels seeking to avoid potential tolls imposed by Tehran.
In the most recent seven-day period, 103 ships entered the strait and 89 exited, a 27% rise from the previous week’s 76 entries and 75 exits. Two weeks earlier, only 18 ships had entered and 21 exited. Most of the vessels were registered under U.S., Panamanian and Liberian flags, with roughly half being oil tankers and the remainder dry cargo ships.
Five ships were reportedly struck by Iranian projectiles during the past week, resulting in injuries and damage but no total losses. The United States has been escorting oil tankers through the area since May, employing tactics such as disabling radars and navigating close to Oman's coast to reduce detection.
Negotiations aimed at ending hostilities and establishing control over the strait concluded a 60-day talks period on Monday, but discussions have stalled. President Trump has stated that the strait is "open and operating" following de-mining efforts, while Iranian officials have warned of retaliatory actions if further sanctions are imposed.