Hormuz Strait Tracker: Weekly Transits Reach Highest Since Iran War Began

Shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz has shown signs of recovery over the past week, with vessel transits reaching their highest level since the conflict involving Iran began on February 28. Recent data indicates a gradual increase in ship movements, suggesting easing constraints in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.

The uptick comes even as tensions persist in the region, with countries and shipping operators reportedly engaging with Tehran to secure safe passage. Despite the increase, overall traffic remains significantly below pre-conflict levels. Iran Grants Passage for Essential and Humanitarian Goods Through Strait of Hormuz.

Hormuz Strait Tracker: Gradual Increase in Vessel Movement

According to vessel-tracking data, 13 ships transited the strait since Friday morning, including 10 outbound vessels from the Persian Gulf and three inbound. The latest movements include liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carriers, bulk carriers and oil-product tankers.

Among the vessels recorded were ships with links to Iran and China, as well as at least one LPG carrier headed to India. A French container ship and a Japanese-owned LNG tanker were also reported to have crossed, marking some of the first such transits since the conflict began. ‘Time Is Running Out’: Donald Trump Says Iran Has 48 Hours To Make Deal or Open Strait of Hormuz.

Iran Tightens Control Over Hormuz Strait Passage

Iran has increased its oversight of maritime traffic in the region, introducing a system that directs vessels along a designated route close to its coastline. Most ships are now navigating through a narrow northern channel between Iranian islands, including Larak and Qeshm.

This approach has effectively centralised shipping movements and given Iranian authorities greater control over transit operations during the ongoing tensions.

Monitoring ship movements in the region has become more complex due to electronic interference and deliberate shutdowns of tracking systems. Many vessels are switching off their Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders in high-risk areas, making real-time tracking difficult.

Analysts note that transit figures may initially appear lower than actual numbers, as some ships only resume signal transmission after moving further away from the strait.

Inbound and Outbound Trends

Outbound traffic since Friday has included multiple bulk carriers and LPG tankers, while inbound movement has been limited, with only a few vessels entering the Persian Gulf.

Some Iran-linked oil tankers are reportedly delaying signal transmission until reaching distant points such as the Strait of Malacca, further complicating efforts to assess traffic in real time.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint for global energy supplies, with roughly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passing through it under normal conditions. Any disruption in the strait can have immediate implications for global energy markets and supply chains. While recent increases in shipping activity suggest some stabilisation, the situation remains fluid as geopolitical tensions continue.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 04, 2026 11:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).