Shipping firms remain uncertain over Strait of Hormuz transits despite Iran and US President Trump declaring it open, reported UK's Seatrade Maritime News.

AIS tracking data from Pole Star Global showed at least seven vessels turned back before westbound transit. Among them were CMA CGM containerships Manaus and Everglade, Indian tankers Desh Suraksha and Sanmar Herald, bulker Jag Arnav, and tankers Seaway and NV Aquamarine.

Three tankers, Torin, Raine, and Gardian, appeared to be progressing through the strait, while more ships were sailing towards the waterway. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that passage would follow a designated route north of the usual traffic scheme and require Iranian authorization. He warned that the strait would not remain open if the US blockade continued.

Bimco described Mr. Trump's statement that the strait was fully open as inaccurate, warning that mine threats remained unclear. Jakob Larsen, Bimco's safety chief, stated that the traffic separation scheme was not declared safe for transit.

International Chamber of Shipping Secretary General Thomas Kazakos said the announcement was positive, but uncertainty persisted. He stressed the need for a durable return to freedom of navigation in the corridor.

CMA CGM vessels were seen u-turning, while Maersk stated it was cautious and would base any decision to transit on risk assessments and guidance from security partners.