Photo: EPA
More sanction-free oil supertankers have started passing through the Strait of Hormuz in recent days, with some vessels traveling “invisible” by switching off tracking systems, according to Bloomberg.
Since May 10, four VLCC supertankers carrying mostly Iraqi oil have exited the strait, bringing exports close to 2 million barrels per day. However, traffic remains far below pre-war levels, when around 20 tankers crossed the route daily.
The Strait of Hormuz has effectively remained blocked since the outbreak of war in late February, severely disrupting global oil supplies. While exports from countries other than Iran are slowly recovering, Iranian shipments have sharply declined due to a US naval blockade.
Shipping activity in the region remains highly risky. Many vessels are navigating with disabled satellite tracking systems, making the real volume of maritime traffic difficult to assess.
Iran recently introduced new transit procedures for ships passing through the strait, while the US continues operations near the Gulf of Oman, further complicating navigation.
Analysts say tanker traffic has increased slightly, but not enough to stabilize the global market, as many shipping companies still hesitate to send vessels back into the region because of security concerns.
