Strait of Hormuz Closure: Following nearly a month of near-total closure due to the ongoing Iran-Israel-US war, vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has shown a measured increase as Iran implements a selective “controlled transit” system. At least 20 vessels have successfully crossed the strait since March 28, according to shipping data, with six AIS-transmitting vessels confirmed to have transited on March 30 alone.
However, the waterway remains strictly closed to ships from the United States, Israel and their Western allies, and traffic is still down more than 90% compared to pre-war levels.
BREAKING: Increased vessel traffic is moving through the Strait of Hormuz today.
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) March 31, 2026
Who Is Allowed to Transit Through the Strait of Hormuz?
Iran’s Foreign Minister announced that ships from China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan are now allowed to transit the strait. Malaysia and Thailand have also secured passage after bilateral talks with Iranian authorities.
Several key vessels have made successful transits in recent days. Two ultra-large Cosco vessels, the CSCL Indian Ocean and CSCL Arctic Ocean, exited the Gulf on March 30. The Indian-flagged LPG carriers BW TYR and BW ELM arrived at Mumbai port on March 31 after safe transit. The Thailand tanker Pola, carrying 1 million barrels of crude, successfully exited the strait bound for Thailand on March 31.
Strait of Hormuz Closure: What Risks Remain for Vessels?
Despite the increase in traffic, significant dangers persist. On March 31, the Kuwaiti tanker Al Salmi was struck by an Iranian drone while anchored at the Port of Dubai, causing a fire and raising concerns about an oil spill.
Many vessels continue to operate “AIS-dark”—with their transponders turned off—to avoid detection, or use alternative routes through Iranian territorial waters north of Larak Island. Major shipping lines like Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd continue to reroute vessels around Africa rather than risk passage through the strait.
Strait of Hormuz Closure: What Is the Economic Impact?
Brent crude prices remain volatile, having peaked at $126 per barrel earlier this month. While prices have moderated slightly, the closure of the strait has created the largest disruption to global oil supplies since the 1970s.
Prior to the conflict, the Strait of Hormuz handled about 20% of the world’s supply of liquefied natural gas and oil. Countries have been compelled to use emergency reserves and look for alternate sources as a result of the near-complete closure.
Strait of Hormuz Closure: How Is India Managing Energy Imports?
India, which sources about 12-15% of its crude oil imports through the Strait of Hormuz, has seen four LPG-laden ships arrive safely in recent days, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed. The government has slashed excise duties on petrol and diesel to cushion domestic consumers from rising prices.
Indian refiners have also resumed buying Iranian oil under a temporary US waiver, with traders reporting that Urals crude is now being sold at a premium rather than at the discounts seen before the war.
What Is the Status of the Iran-US Conflict?
The increased traffic comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts. President Trump has delayed attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure until April 6, claiming talks with Iran are going “very well.” Iranian officials, however, have openly denied any talks, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating that Tehran “does not intend to engage.”
Through Pakistani mediators, the US reportedly provided a 15-point ceasefire plan that calls for the reopening of the strait to all shipping and the permanent cessation of nuclear enrichment.
FAQs: Strait of Hormuz Crisis
Q: How many vessels have crossed the strait recently?
A: Since March 28, at least 20 vessels have successfully crossed; six were confirmed on March 30 alone.
Q: Which countries’ ships are allowed to transit?
A: China, Russia, India, Iraq, Pakistan, Malaysia and Thailand have secured passage. Ships from the US, Israel and Western allies remain blocked.
Q: Are attacks still happening?
A: Yes. On March 31, the Kuwaiti tanker Al Salmi was struck by an Iranian drone at Dubai port, causing a fire.
Q: What is the current oil price?
A: Brent crude has peaked at $126 per barrel this month and remains volatile.
Q: Are major shipping lines using the strait?
A: No, because of security concerns, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd still divert ships around Africa.
Q: Is Iran negotiating with the US?
A: Despite Trump’s assertions, Iran rejects talks. Through Pakistani mediators, a 15-point US proposal was presented, but it was rejected.
Disclaimer: This information is based on inputs from news agency reports. TSG does not independently confirm the information provided by the relevant sources.
