Ships to follow alternative paths near the Iranian coast
The Strait of Hormuz routes have been modified following a directive from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy, which advised ships passing through the strait to follow two alternative routes closer to Iranian shores. The announcement cited the potential presence of mines along the usual, more open paths.
Iranian media, citing a military statement accompanied by a maritime map, said vessels entering the Gulf from the Sea of Oman should pass between Iran’s coast and Larak Island, described by Lloyd’s List as Tehran’s “toll station.” Exit routes from the Gulf pass south of the island, avoiding the smoother course closer to Oman’s coast. Recent ship transits appear to have followed these alternative routes through Iranian territorial waters.
Temporary ceasefire and shipping context
The US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire late Tuesday night, which included the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global hydrocarbon supply. The strait had been almost completely closed since the outbreak of conflict on 28 February and remains under Iranian military control.
Data from Kpler and MarineTraffic show 307 commercial vessel transits between 1 March and 27 April, a reduction of nearly 95% compared with peacetime activity. Normally, about 20% of crude oil and liquefied natural gas bound for global markets passes through this vital passage connecting the Gulf to the busiest maritime routes.
Regional impact
The altered Strait of Hormuz routes highlight ongoing risks for global energy transport and the strategic importance of maritime navigation in the Gulf amid US-Iran tensions.
Source: CNA
Also read: Trump: US military to remain near Tehran
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