Oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has surged to its highest level since June 2, following the implementation of a deal between the U.S. and Iran to reopen the critical sea lane to commercial ship traffic [1]. According to trade intelligence firm Kpler, at least 20 oil tankers crossed the strait since the reopening, with a total of 25 ships, including cargo and container vessels, transiting Hormuz on Thursday [1]. This uptick in activity comes after the U.S. Navy ended its blockade of Iran, and Iran began allowing ships to cross the strait toll-free for 60 days [1].
Despite the increase, traffic remains below prewar levels, when more than 100 ships, including dozens of tankers, transited Hormuz daily [1]. The vessel flow was nearly balanced, with 13 crossings moving West to East and 12 moving East to West, according to Kpler's commodity research director Matt Smith [1]. Notably, three supertankers from Saudi Arabia and one from the United Arab Emirates, each capable of hauling up to 2 million barrels of oil, crossed Hormuz on Thursday [1].
Kpler analysts observed that Iranian supertankers are now switching on their transponders after previously operating in the dark during the war, and five Iranian supertankers loaded with oil departed the region on Friday [1]. The analysts noted that two-way vessel flows suggest Iranian crude trade is gradually returning to normal operating patterns [1]. Eighteen ships followed the route designated by Iran, while only one used the International Maritime Organization's route, and the routes for six ships could not be confirmed [1].
The U.S.-Iran deal has also raised questions about the future governance of the Strait of Hormuz. After the 60-day toll-free period, Iran is set to hold talks with Oman and Gulf states on how to administer the strait, potentially leaving open the possibility of future tolls being imposed [1]. U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated that "the Iranians so far are honoring their end of the commitment" [1].
CONCLUSION
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz under the U.S.-Iran deal has led to a significant increase in oil tanker traffic, signaling a gradual normalization of crude trade in the region. However, traffic remains below prewar levels, and questions remain about the long-term governance and potential tolls for the strategic waterway.