The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which a fifth of the world's oil supplies pass, has seen a significant drop in ship traffic following fresh US-Iran strikes. Just 23 tankers and cargo vessels navigated the Gulf passage on Wednesday, down from 47 recorded a week earlier, according to maritime intelligence firm Kpler. This decline is largely attributed to attacks on three vessels, including a Qatar-owned LNG tanker and a Saudi-owned crude oil tanker, which were using a US-recommended route through Omani waters.
The recent escalation in tensions has effectively brought traffic on the Omani route to a standstill, with no ships passing through on Wednesday. This is a stark contrast to the 10 vessels per day that traversed this route in the week preceding the latest incidents. The US and its Gulf allies have repeatedly called for unimpeded passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran insists that commercial ships and oil tankers must use a separate route through its own waters.
The UK's reliance on global energy markets means it could face significant implications from sustained disruptions to ship traffic in the region. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office currently advises against all travel to Iran and advises against all but essential travel to certain areas of Oman bordering Yemen. While specific advice for maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz remains unchanged since general maritime security warnings were issued, the UK Government has consistently called for de-escalation in the region and adherence to international maritime law.
The latest violence follows a period of fragile calm after a deal to end the broader conflict was signed on 17 June. The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) had recommended the Omani route, leading to its increased usage before Iran's top military command insisted that only Iranian-approved routes should be used. President Donald Trump has accused Iran of a 'foolish violation' of the interim agreement.
The ongoing uncertainty and reduced ship movements are likely to have far-reaching consequences for global energy prices and supply chains, with implications for British businesses and consumers. British nationals involved in maritime industries in the region are advised to follow FCDO guidance closely and monitor developments carefully.