Ship traffic has nearly stopped: US-Iran tensions paralyze the Strait of Hormuz

The successive attacks launched by the US against Iran have caused a serious disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the main arteries for global energy transport. On Thursday, ship activity in the strait decreased significantly, effectively paralyzing the route.

According to the latest data from ship tracking systems, large-scale vessel traffic through the strait has largely concentrated on the northern route approved by Iran, while the corridor on the Omani side, supported by the US, has fallen almost entirely silent. Only one supertanker on the US sanctions list and an Iranian-flagged container ship were observed navigating the area. However, it is also emphasized that some ships may have intentionally turned off their tracking devices to pass through covertly.

Observations also reveal that ships are waiting in groups at certain points in the strait. According to experts, this could be a sign of potential electronic jamming activities. In particular, the intensification of US military operations following Iran's recent increase in attacks on commercial vessels, combined with US President Donald Trump's announcement that the ceasefire with Iran has officially ended, has further escalated tensions in the strait.

On Wednesday, a total of 14 commodity ships were recorded passing through in both directions. This figure stands out as the lowest daily number recorded since the temporary ceasefire established last month. This slowdown in the Strait of Hormuz is being viewed as the beginning of a new period of uncertainty in the global energy supply.