At least six oil tankers carrying Iranian crude have been forced to return to Iran in recent days due to a U.S. blockade, according to ship-tracking data, highlighting escalating disruptions in the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Data from shipping analytics firms show a sharp drop in vessel traffic through the strait, with only a handful of ships passing in the past 24 hours, none transporting oil for the global market, compared to the usual 125 to 140 vessels daily prior to the conflict.
The disruption comes amid ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, with both sides imposing restrictions on maritime activity. Washington began enforcing a blockade on Iran-linked shipping earlier this month, with U.S. forces reportedly turning back dozens of vessels.
The six affected tankers were estimated to be carrying around 10.5 million barrels of oil, based on satellite analysis. While some vessels have been ordered to return, others have managed to continue their journey, including two tankers that passed through the blockade en route to Asia.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, typically handles about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. However, activity has significantly slowed as the conflict drags on and diplomatic efforts remain stalled.
Hundreds of vessels and around 20,000 seafarers remain stranded in the Gulf, raising safety concerns. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, warned that prolonged tensions could increase the risk of serious maritime and environmental incidents.
