Shipowners are increasingly optimistic about traffic through the Strait of Hormuz after more vessels left the waterway this week with US military advice, reports Bloomberg News.

At least two shipowners stated they were in contact with American forces, which provided guidance on navigating Hormuz. US Central Command clarified that military assets are not escorting ships but continue to advise commercial vessels.

One transit group was approached by suspected Iranian fast boats before helicopters intervened, allowing the vessels to continue. Chevron Chief Executive Officer Mike Wirth noted that some ships have recently come under attack. The US confirmed that deals with Iran for safe passage remain prohibited.

Some ships crossing Hormuz belong to companies that had avoided the strait since the war began. Others have entered the Persian Gulf. Regional operators, including the UAE state oil company and Qatar, have also dispatched vessels, with Qatar exporting liquefied natural gas.

Several ships transited with satellite transponders switched off, suggesting that conventional tracking may understate traffic. Data indicate that at least one quarter of non-Iranian ships stranded since the conflict began have exited Hormuz.

The White House continues to send mixed signals regarding prospects for a deal with Iran. Shipowners indicated that uncertainty persists until details are clarified. TotalEnergies Chief Executive Officer Patrick Pouyanne stated that his company would require signs of lasting peace before resuming Gulf transits.

Capital Tankers Chief Executive Officer Gerasimos Kalogiratos remarked that a reopening could trigger a 'frenzy phase' in tanker earnings, which are already at generational highs.