Shipping Traffic in the Strait of Hormuz Reaches Highest Level Since Early March

On April 6, foreign media reported that the traffic in the Strait of Hormuz has risen to its highest level since the onset of the Middle East conflict, as more countries have reached security passage agreements with Iran. Over the weekend, a total of 21 vessels transited the waterway, marking the highest two-day total since traffic began to decline in early March. Although the current number of passing vessels remains far below pre-war levels (approximately 135 vessels), more countries have obtained passage permits. Senior crude oil analyst at Singapore’s Kpler stated, “Iran is strengthening its control over the Strait of Hormuz while responding to requests from its partner countries. Passage still depends on Iran’s willingness, and the situation could change at any moment if conflicts escalate.” So far, most of the vessels granted passage appear to be following routes directed by Tehran, sailing close to the Iranian coast. However, more vessels are also beginning to choose routes along the opposite shore.