Oil Tanker Traffic Through Hormuz Begins to Recover
Oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is showing signs of recovery after the United States and Iran moved to reopen the key maritime corridor to commercial shipping, according to trade intelligence firm Kpler.
Kpler said at least 20 oil tankers have crossed the strait since the reopening began. On Thursday, tanker transits reached their highest level since June 2, although overall activity remained well below prewar norms. Before the conflict, more than 100 vessels, including dozens of tankers, typically moved through Hormuz each day.
A total of 25 vessels crossed Thursday, including cargo ships, container vessels and other classes, along with tankers. The increase followed the U.S. Navy’s decision to end its blockade of Iran, while Tehran agreed to permit ships to transit Hormuz for 60 days without tolls. Vice President JD Vance said Iran has so far complied with the arrangement.
Kpler commodity research director Matt Smith said Thursday’s traffic was broadly balanced, with 13 vessels moving west to east and 12 traveling east to west. Among the tankers were three Saudi very large crude carriers and one from the United Arab Emirates. Each VLCC can transport up to 2 million barrels of oil.
Kpler analysts also reported that Iranian supertankers have begun switching on transponders after operating without visible tracking during the war. Five loaded Iranian supertankers were seen leaving the region Friday, a sign analysts said suggests Iranian crude trade is moving closer to normal patterns.
Routing remains a point of attention. Kpler said 18 ships used Iran’s designated Hormuz route Thursday, while one followed the International Maritime Organization route. Six routes could not be confirmed.
The reopening has not resolved questions over future governance of the strait. Under the deal, Iran is expected to discuss administration with Oman and Gulf states after the 60-day period ends, leaving open the possibility of future tolls.