Chinese Supertanker Crosses Strait of Hormuz Amid US-Iran Tensions
A Chinese supertanker, the Yuan Hua Hu, has successfully navigated through the Strait of Hormuz after being delayed for over two months due to ongoing US-Iran tensions. The vessel, carrying nearly two million barrels of Iraqi crude, had been stranded in the Gulf as a result of the conflict. This marks the third known passage by a Chinese oil tanker through the strait since the US-Israeli war with Iran began earlier this year. The crossing occurs as US President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are scheduled to meet, following a visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi to Beijing. Iran has been tightening its control over the strait, making deals with Iraq and Pakistan to ship oil and liquefied natural gas, which could further entrench its influence over this critical waterway.