Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has resumed with the first commercial vessels passing through the strategic waterway following the recent ceasefire between Iran and regional powers. Data from shipping services shows multiple cargo ships and tankers navigating the narrow passage between Oman and Iran without incident.
The ceasefire agreement signed last week ended weeks of heightened tensions that had disrupted one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. The strait handles about a fifth of global oil supplies, and temporary closures had driven up freight costs and raised concerns over supply chain stability. Analysts say the return of normal traffic signals a cautious easing of regional tensions.
Among the first ships to pass was the VLCC Suezmax tanker Maran Apollo, bound for Asia with a full load of crude. Shipping data firm VesselFinder confirmed its transit early Tuesday morning. Another vessel, the container ship Ever Greet, also completed the passage under naval escort, according to maritime tracking services.
Officials from the United Arab Emirates and Oman reported no disruptions at their ports connected to the strait. The UAE’s Ministry of Energy stated that oil exports via the strait remain unaffected. Regional shipping companies had rerouted some vessels around Africa during the shutdown, adding days to voyages and increasing costs.
The ceasefire’s durability remains uncertain, but for now, the Hormuz corridor is open. Industry observers say the resumption of traffic will help stabilize oil prices that rose sharply during the shutdown. Traders in Dubai and Singapore are monitoring the situation closely as they await further developments.
Source: e24.no