According to data from the maritime security consultancy company Windward, despite the mutual blockade measures between the United States and Iran, there has been renewed activity in ship traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

On April 25, a total of 19 vessels passed through the strait. It was noted that the majority of the ships were heading outwards and that all were transmitting AIS signals. This development is being interpreted as at least a short-term sign of recovery.

However, experts believe that the number of transits could have reached higher levels if there were no restrictions on maritime activities related to Iran. It is reported that the U.S. Navy is continuing its efforts to make the maritime blockade more effective and has achieved some results to a certain extent.

Noteworthy transit: Mega yacht Nord

One of the most notable vessels passing through the strait was the mega yacht Nord, linked to sanctioned Russian businessman Alexey Mordashov.

It is considered that Iran, which has close ties with Russia in the defense sector, is encouraging Russian ships to use the strait. The 460-foot-long Lurssen-built Nord, which is among the largest yachts in the world, reportedly passed by the Iranian coast around 09:00 local time on Saturday and is currently located at the Port of Muscat in Oman.

Iran-linked tankers also passed

Among the other notable vessels that transited were the sanctioned tankers Oceanjet and Lumina Ocean, linked to Iran's oil sector.

In contrast, it was stated that other Iranian or Iran-chartered vessels did not have the same opportunity. Since the beginning of the blockade, it has been recorded that 37 ships have been stopped and their routes changed, and three ships have been seized.

According to TankerTrackers.com data, crude oil valued at approximately $380 million has come under U.S. control and has been shipped to the U.S. It is estimated that oil valued at around $1 billion has returned to Iran with tankers that were turned back due to the blockade.

Mine clearance is critically important

Experts emphasize that for normal traffic levels to return in the Strait of Hormuz, the conflict must come to a permanent end, and the mines that Iran has laid near maritime routes must be cleared.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated at a press conference that they are confident in their capacity to clear the mines in the waterway. Hegseth also noted that U.S. forces are working on this mission.

20,000 sailors stranded

With the onset of the conflicts, it has been reported that approximately 20,000 sailors are stranded on ships in the Gulf region. The crew is facing uncertainty, food restrictions, communication problems, and the risk of attacks.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez announced in a video message that they will increase their efforts for the safety and welfare of seafarers.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye