Iran Halts Oil Shipments Through Strait of Hormuz

Iran's halt of oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz on the 10th has effectively blocked passage, stranding approximately 3,200 vessels on the western side of the waterway. A total of 3,200 ships, including 800 oil tankers and cargo vessels, are waiting for clearance to transit.

Ceasefire negotiations, backed by the U.S., had stipulated the reopening of the vital Strait of Hormuz shipping lane. However, Iran's transport halt raises questions about compliance with ceasefire terms. U.S. President Donald Trump warned on April 8 that Iran was not allowing oil to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Kpler analyst Matty Smith stated that oil tankers have not attempted to navigate in recent days. Smith described the strait as closed. He added that three vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, two of which were Iranian-flagged and one a bulk carrier. Ships were observed passing through the Strait of Hormuz during a two-week temporary ceasefire.

Nearly 20,000 seafarers are stranded based at the strait, according to the International Maritime Organization. Cargo is being rerouted to Omani ports and the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, adding approximately two weeks to some voyages and increasing costs by about 25%.