Zero ships pass through Hormuz in 24 hours

For the first time since the US-Israeli war with Iran began on February 28, no major commercial ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz in a 24-hour period ending Thursday at 0900GMT, according to vessel tracking data compiled by Anadolu. The strategic waterway, a lifeline for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, has effectively ground to a halt as security risks multiply.

Attacks and new Iranian controls

The stoppage follows multiple security incidents. Chinese state-linked media outlet Caixin reported that a Chinese-owned large oil tanker was attacked near the UAE’s Al Jeer port on Monday, marking the first such strike on a Chinese vessel since the war began. A fire broke out on the ship’s deck. Meanwhile, the French-owned CMA CGM San Antonio was attacked while transiting the strait on Tuesday, injuring crew members and causing damage. Another French vessel, CMA CGM Saigon, apparently crossed the strait with its tracking system switched off, later reappearing off Oman’s coast.

Iran’s declared ‘safe corridor’

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy announced Wednesday that ships are now following new transit regulations set by Tehran. In a post on X, the IRGC Navy stated that “safe and stable passage” would be ensured under new protocols. It warned vessels to use only designated routes, adding that “any deviation would face firm action” and describing the approved corridor as the “only safe passage” through the strait.