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A third Iran-linked tanker passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, marking continued vessel movement on the first full day of the U.S. blockade
on ships calling at Iranian ports, according to shipping data. The tanker was among three vessels transiting the narrow waterway, but none were bound for Iranian ports and therefore were not affected by the blockade announced by U.S. President Donald Trump. The blockade was declared on Sunday after talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad ended without any breakthrough.
Shipping data showed that one of the vessels, a Panama-flagged tanker, was heading towards Hamriyah port in the United Arab Emirates. Such tankers are commonly used to transport Iranian petrochemical products, including naphtha, to other ports in the region for onward export to Asian markets. Despite the tensions, the movement of these ships indicates that some trade routes remain operational.
Earlier, two tankers that are under U.S. sanctions also passed through the strait. One of them is expected to travel to Iraq later this week to load fuel oil. The other tanker is likely to exit the Gulf after carrying cargo from the UAE. Data showed that it is transporting a large quantity of methanol and is operated by a company that has been sanctioned by the United States for its dealings linked to Iran.
The continued passage of these vessels highlights that the blockade has not completely halted maritime traffic through the strait, which remains one of the world’s most critical oil routes. However, the situation remains sensitive as geopolitical tensions continue to shape shipping activity in the region.
Meanwhile, China criticised the US move, calling the blockade “dangerous and irresponsible,” and warned that it could further escalate tensions. Beijing, however, did not confirm whether Chinese vessels were currently navigating through the strait.
