Hormuz shipping traffic nearly stops as tensions escalate
Strategic oil route slows sharply as US pressure and Israel-linked conflict disrupt global energy flows
MUSCAT, Oman (MNTV) — Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has nearly ground to a halt, as escalating tensions driven by United States actions and its alignment with Israel continue to destabilize one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Data from maritime tracking platforms shows that only three vessels crossed the strait in the past 24 hours — a dramatic collapse from the roughly 140 ships that typically transited daily before the outbreak of the US-Israel conflict with Iran in late February.
The sharp slowdown follows what analysts describe as an aggressive US blockade targeting Iranian ports, a move that has provoked a retaliatory response from Tehran, which has imposed its own restrictions on the strategic waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz carries nearly 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, making the disruption a major shock to global markets.
Among the few vessels that managed to pass were tankers and cargo ships operating under unclear ownership and flag status, highlighting the growing risks and opacity surrounding maritime activity in the region.
Shipping data indicates that several vessels have been forced to delay or reroute, while others have made repeated failed attempts to exit the Gulf.
Brief signs of recovery last week quickly faded after Iran reopened the strait temporarily, only to shut it again within a day amid heightened military tensions. Reports of vessels coming under fire have further intensified fears among shipping operators.
Industry experts warn that even ships attempting to comply with conditions imposed by both sides face serious danger, underscoring the increasingly volatile environment created by competing blockades and military escalation.
Critics argue that Washington’s confrontational approach, backed by its strategic partnership with Israel, has pushed the region closer to economic and security breakdown. The disruption to Hormuz is seen as a direct consequence of policies that prioritize military pressure over diplomatic engagement.
Meanwhile, prospects for de-escalation appear dim. Iran has not committed to renewed negotiations, while US forces have reportedly seized vessels linked to Tehran in international waters — a move widely viewed as further inflaming tensions.
Analysts caution that continued instability in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger severe global energy disruptions, with ripple effects across economies already strained by conflict and rising costs.
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