Commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remained below normal levels after fresh attacks on two vessels raised new security concerns. Although some ships continued transiting the strategic waterway, many operators remained cautious. The slowdown highlights ongoing risks to global energy supplies and maritime trade.
The Singapore-registered container ship Ever Lovely sustained minor bridge damage from an unidentified projectile on June 25 while leaving the strait. Two days later, the Panama-flagged tanker M/T Kiku was struck by a one-way drone while carrying more than two million barrels of crude oil. The US Central Command blamed Iranian forces for the attack and said it launched retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets.
Despite the incidents, maritime tracking data showed that commercial traffic continued over the weekend. Empty Very Large Crude Carriers entered the Persian Gulf, while loaded oil tankers departed through the waterway. Shipping data recorded 40 vessel movements on June 27, including 24 inbound and 16 outbound transits.
The Joint Maritime Information Centre raised the security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz to “substantial”, warning vessels about mines and increased naval activity. Shipowners remain divided over using the route, with some vessels choosing the Iranian-designated northern corridor while others continue sailing near Oman’s southern waters.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, linking Gulf oil producers to international markets. Maritime experts warn that continued security threats could delay the recovery of oil exports despite ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran.