Hormuz traffic shows fragile rebound with 71 crossings in 3 days
Vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz rebounded to 71 confirmed crossings between June 19-21, peaking at 35 on June 20, according to MarineTraffic data. However, activity remains below pre-crisis levels, with many ships still using Iranian coastal routes or switching off AIS due to ongoing security concerns and incomplete demining.
Vessel crossings through the Strait of Hormuz have rebounded noticeably following the lifting of the blockade, but the recovery of one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints remains fragile, according to data from MarineTraffic. The maritime analytics firm reported on Monday that it recorded 71 confirmed transits through the strait between June 19 and 21, with crossings peaking at 35 on June 20. The pickup follows renewed signals around free passage through the waterway, and more vessels are now transiting with their Automatic Identification System (AIS) active, pointing to a gradual improvement in operator confidence.
Cautious return and persistent risks
Despite the uptick, traffic has not fully normalized. MarineTraffic said activity remains below pre-crisis levels, and many ships continue to use Iranian route patterns or operate on so-called "dark routes," where vessels limit or switch off AIS visibility amid lingering security concerns. According to the US Energy Information Administration and the International Energy Agency, oil flows through the strait averaged 20 million barrels per day in 2024—roughly 20% of global petroleum liquids consumption. The latest rise in crossings follows a sharp disruption in Gulf shipping caused by the blockade and heightened regional tensions.
Industry caution and demining challenges
Shipping industry groups have warned that major obstacles remain. BIMCO noted that the central portion of the strait remains mined and unnavigable, with only inshore traffic zones close to Iran and Oman reportedly clear. INTERTANKO said clearing the main Traffic Separation Scheme of mines must be the industry's top priority, while over 100 laden tankers and nearly 100 ballast tankers remain inside the Persian Gulf awaiting safe passage. War risk insurance premiums, though down from their peak, remain structurally elevated at 1 to 3 percent of hull value.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.