Commercial shipping through Strait of Hormuz slows after tanker attacks

Commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz continued at a reduced pace over the weekend after attacks on two vessels heightened security concerns and prompted some shipowners to reconsider transits through the strategic waterway.

Shipping data showed that 12 commercial vessels crossed the strait in both directions on June 28, less than half the 28 crossings recorded on June 27, when one of the tanker attacks occurred. Before the latest escalation, 58 ships transited the strait on June 24, the highest daily total since late February, Bloomberg reports. 

Among the vessels that completed the passage over the weekend were two empty very large crude carriers entering the Persian Gulf, as well as a French-flagged container ship and two loaded oil tankers departing the region.

The decline in traffic reflects growing caution among shipping companies. According to industry sources cited by the agency, some vessels approaching the Strait of Hormuz turned back rather than attempt the crossing, while several shipowners have temporarily suspended plans to transit the route as they monitor the security situation.

By Sabina Mammadli