Hormuz Strait traffic slows as US-Iran diplomatic uncertainty persists

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained subdued on August 3, while uncertainty over potential U.S.-Iran negotiations continued amid heightened regional tensions.

According to Kpler data, six vessels transited the strategic waterway on August 3, including three oil tankers and three bulk carriers, down from seven vessels recorded the previous day, Reuters reports.

Separately, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) earlier reported that an oil tanker sailing off the coast of Oman was struck by an unidentified projectile on August 1, leaving the vessel disabled. No further details about the incident or those responsible were immediately available.

On the diplomatic front, U.S. President Donald Trump said additional information regarding contacts between Washington and Tehran would be released on August 4. He also stated that the two countries were already in communication, despite Iran's public denials.

Earlier, Trump said negotiations were under way and described the current period as a "last chance" for Tehran to reach what he called a favourable agreement with the United States.

Iran, however, rejected those claims, insisting that no negotiations were taking place or planned.

By Sabina Mammadli