More vessels than one might expect are transiting the blocked Strait of Hormuz despite formal restrictions. This is the conclusion of the Financial Times, which describes how global oil logistics are adapting to the conditions of military conflict in the Middle East.
Since late February, Iran has shut one of the key arteries of global oil and gas trade. Yet the blockade is not absolute. According to the newspaper, brief “windows of opportunity” regularly emerge in the area, allowing some vessels to leave the Persian Gulf. These openings are unstable and can close within hours—often faster than it takes a ship to cross the strait.
It was precisely such a window that the tanker Akti A, linked to Maersk and carrying cargo for Vitol, managed to exploit. The vessel was among the first in line and succeeded in crossing before Iran once again announced the closure of the passage and deployed forces from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to the area. Other ships were less fortunate: some turned back after coming under fire, while others chose not to take the risk.
Even minor delays can prove decisive. Swiss Marine said one of its vessels had received permission to pass but was unable to act in time due to approval procedures with its owners. By the time a decision was made, the situation had already changed and the strait was closed again. At the same time, successful voyages can generate substantial profits. One of the last tankers to make it through was carrying oil for Socar; according to market sources, the deal proved highly lucrative amid soaring prices and supply shortages.
Oil traders acknowledge that routes through the strait still exist, but their details remain opaque. The head of Mercuria, Marco Dunand, said there are “different ways” to cross the strait, without elaborating. According to him, traffic continues, albeit in a limited form.
One strategy involves relying on countries that maintain working relations with Iran. As the Financial Times notes, a more lenient approach is applied to vessels linked to China, Pakistan, and Oman. The latter uses its coastline as an alternative route, allowing some convoys to move along the shore. In this way, the tanker Dhalkut, linked to Oman, was able to leave the Persian Gulf as part of a convoy involving Trafigura. For the company, it was the only successful departure among several stranded vessels.
Other market participants resort to riskier methods. MSC Group attempted to move ships through the strait by disabling tracking systems. Some succeeded, but two were later intercepted by Iranian forces for violating navigation rules.
Finally, the issue of possible transit payments remains unclear. Reports have suggested that Iran may demand payment for passage, but major traders say they have avoided such arrangements due to the risk of sanctions.
