Strait of Hormuz traffic at fraction of pre-war levels

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains significantly reduced, standing at just 17 percent of its pre-conflict average over the past week. This critical waterway has become a focal point in the ongoing war, with escalating rhetoric between the United States and Iran regarding its control.

According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), 151 ships navigated the narrow passage in the last seven days. Vessels flagged by Panama and Liberia were the most common, with 12 ships each making the transit. Notably, no US-flagged vessels were reported during this period.

The UKMTO also reported 56 instances of damage to vessels in or near the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began on February 28. While this tally does not include the latest attacks on Thursday, a separate UKMTO update noted minor damage to a vessel from a drone strike. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) confirmed two of its vessels were attacked while transiting the strait.

The southern Omani route, a temporary alternative corridor, continues to be the highest-risk area, accounting for 16 of 18 reported projectile strike incidents since July 6. The US naval blockade remains in effect, preventing ships from accessing or departing Iranian ports. Despite this, one Iranian-flagged ship was reported inbound and another outbound through the strait in the past week.

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