The security situation for shipping around the Strait of Hormuz has been complicated in the last few weeks.
The situation is constantly in flux with announcements made only to be contradicted a short time later.
Travel through, or near, the Strait
Two separate maritime blockades are now in effect: one by Iran and one by the United States, with differing geographic focus, methods of enforcement, and enforcement targets. Neutral vessels not calling at Iranian ports are reportedly not affected, but may be subject to searches by American forces. Multiple commercial vessels have been fired upon, seized, or forced to alter course while transiting or attempting to transit the Strait.
Vessels operating near or outside approved routes face heightened risk of aggressive hailing, live fire, and potential seizure. Ships with any perceived affiliation to the United States or Israel are considered at increased risk, even if such affiliation is weak or indirect. Since the beginning of the war, a total of 29 commercial vessels have been hit in the Persian Gulf, with some sustaining severe damage.
Multiple sources report electronic disruption to AIS and GPS remain a problem in the region at specific points. GPS interference off the port at Fujairah is reported to be “massive” and the area is a high-risk zone for navigation.
Iran has announced the collection of tolls for transit through the Strait; these tolls are not internationally recognized and carry legal and safety risks. At least one government minister of an unaffiliated nation has also publicly floated the idea of a toll on a nearby waterway. Some vessels have used the southern route through the Strait in coordination with the country of Oman (the other major Strait littoral) and this still carries risks of attack or seizure.
Traffic through the Iranian-approved northern route has been reported to have significantly declined and coordination with Iranian or affiliated actors does not appear to guarantee vessel safety.
Ports
Ports across the United Arab Emirates are reported to be largely operational and in use. Ports in Kuwait are reported to by fully operational. All Omani ports are reported to be fully operational. Ports in Saudi Arabia are reported to be operational and are operating at full capacity. Shipping traffic in Bahrain has resumed. Several ports in Qatar are operational but are working at significantly reduced levels, the LNG terminals at Al Shaheen and Halul Island are closed.
