The Trump administration has stated that payments made by commercial vessels to Iran’s Strait of Hormuz transit authority could be reclaimed from Iranian assets, escalating tensions over control of this crucial waterway. Despite claims of closure by the PGSA, U.S. Central Command affirmed that the Strait remains open for commercial shipping.
President Donald Trump recently announced that the U.S. military has been secretly assisting commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. He claimed this operation has successfully enabled over 100 million barrels of oil to reach the market and supported more than 200 ships, asserting U.S. control over the crucial waterway.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has confirmed the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, with no incidents reported in 72 hours. Director Opesh Kumar Sharma reassured the public, stating that the situation remains stable and the Directorate General of Shipping is actively coordinating for seafarers’ welfare.
India’s shipping and logistics sector is grappling with unprecedented challenges due to escalating conflicts in West Asia, particularly near the Strait of Hormuz. The nation is rapidly adapting its routes, significantly increasing traffic through alternatives like the Red Sea, while domestic inflation pressures mount due to rising transport costs.
At the Capital Link conference in Athens, shipping executives stressed that any U.S.-Iran peace deal must include clear navigation regulations for the Strait of Hormuz. Industry leaders voiced concerns over ongoing tensions impacting maritime operations, emphasizing the need for safety guarantees to protect seafarers and ensure free passage for global trade.
Iran’s recent map publication asserting control over the Strait of Hormuz has intensified the crisis for over 20,000 mariners stranded on 2,000 vessels. Many sailors face dire conditions without sufficient food or water, praying for safety amid escalating tensions and uncertainty in the Gulf.
Iran is in talks with Oman to implement a permanent toll system in the Strait of Hormuz, aimed at enhancing maritime traffic control. Ambassador Mohammad Amin-Nejad stressed that resource allocation for navigation and security is essential. The U.S., however, opposes these plans, warning against complications in diplomatic negotiations.
Traffic through the Panama Canal is significantly rising, fueled by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. According to BIMCO Shipping Analysis, transits have increased 8% year-over-year, particularly in the tanker sector, with vessel movements up 16%. This surge has strained capacity, leading to longer wait times and escalating slot prices.
A recovery in tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz reveals a fragile situation, complicated by Iran’s new transit fees. Last week, 55 vessels transited the critical passage, up from 19. However, overall traffic remains below pre-conflict levels, raising concerns about ongoing disruptions in LNG trade and political tensions.
On Thursday, India’s Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack on an Indian-flagged ship off Oman, calling it “unacceptable.” While the ministry did not name the responsible country, it emphasized the need for maritime safety and the protection of civilians, highlighting the risks to navigation and commerce. All Indian crew members were rescued safely.
Arsenio Dominguez, head of the IMO, expressed serious concern over seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, calling the situation “unacceptable.” He highlighted the psychological stress and security threats faced by these workers, warning that prolonged immobilization could lead to significant maritime incidents and impact global trade and economic stability.
A.P. Moller – Maersk announced it will continue to avoid transiting through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing uncertainties from the fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire. The company described the situation as “highly volatile,” advising caution and emphasizing that navigational safety remains unguaranteed despite recent diplomatic efforts. Alternative transport solutions are being explored.
Saudi Aramco highlighted the ongoing disruption in the Strait of Hormuz as a crucial alert about global energy dependence. In its first-quarter 2026 earnings report, Aramco noted its East-West Pipeline reached full capacity, enabling the rerouting of oil exports and continuing shipments through the Red Sea amid geopolitical tensions.
The primary concern for the 20,000 seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz is not food or water, but fear of missile strikes. This constant threat, coupled with isolation and anxiety, has severely impacted their mental health. Captains report living under psychological strain, as feelings of helplessness pervade their days.
Shipping companies are wary of navigating the Strait of Hormuz, despite Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps offering assurances of safe transit. Experts express skepticism, recalling past unfulfilled promises. The vital oil route’s potential closure could impact global prices, with gasoline hitting $4.50 a gallon. Formal safety confirmations are crucial before proceeding.
