Only six vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday

Yesterday 10:42

By: Azzat Manal

Only six vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday

Only six commercial vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, according to preliminary shipping data, highlighting the continued disruption affecting one of the world's most important maritime energy routes.

Data from shipping intelligence company Kpler, recorded as of 04:05 GMT on Thursday, showed that the number of vessels passing through the strategic waterway fell from 11 the previous day and remained well below the 10-day average of around 13 vessels.

Among the ships that crossed the strait were two large liquefied gas carriers, according to the preliminary figures.

The daily number of vessels recorded through the waterway may not fully reflect actual maritime traffic, however, as some ships can switch off their automatic identification system transponders while sailing. This means that shipping data may be revised as additional information becomes available.

The sharp decline in crossings comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran and growing uncertainty over the security of maritime traffic in the Gulf region.

U.S. President Donald Trump has said Washington is currently in control of the Strait of Hormuz and has pledged to maintain that position. He also said that the United States was achieving what he described as very good results in its dealings with Iran.

Trump indicated earlier on Wednesday that the renewed U.S. military campaign against Iran would not necessarily be prolonged. He also said Washington remained prepared to launch further strikes against Iranian targets whenever it considered them necessary.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global energy supplies, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the wider Arabian Sea. Any sustained reduction in shipping through the waterway could have significant consequences for oil and gas markets, freight costs and international supply chains.

The latest traffic figures therefore remain closely watched by energy traders, governments and shipping companies as tensions continue to shape commercial activity in one of the world's most strategically important waterways.