Global oil supply routes remain under pressure as only a limited number of tankers continue to move through the Strait of Hormuz despite severe disruptions to commercial shipping, underscoring the fragile state of energy flows from the Middle East even as oil prices remain relatively firm.
Market sentiment steadied on Tuesday after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the suspension of a planned strike on Iran, easing immediate concerns over a broader military escalation. However, ongoing uncertainty surrounding the region’s security outlook continued to support crude prices and keep traders focused on potential supply risks. As at the time of writing 06:40 am (WAT), Brent crude traded at $110.7 per barrel, down 0.50 per cent, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude stood at $103.8 per barrel, down 0.36 per cent.
According to a report by Oilprice.com, commercial tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed sharply since tensions escalated between the United States, Israel and Iran, significantly constraining maritime activity through the critical oil transit route.
The Strait of Hormuz typically handles close to one-fifth of global oil supply, making it one of the most important chokepoints in the international energy market. Any prolonged disruption to movements through the corridor carries implications for global crude availability, shipping costs and broader market stability.
Despite the sharp decline in activity, vessel-tracking data reviewed by Bloomberg showed that at least 19 non-Iranian oil and liquefied petroleum gas tankers have successfully entered and exited the Persian Gulf since March 1.
However, the broader shipping picture remains strained. Roughly 100 non-Iranian tankers that entered the Gulf before the conflict are reportedly still stranded in the region as operators weigh heightened security concerns and the risk of attacks.
The vessels that continue to transit the corridor are primarily transporting cargoes from the United Arab Emirates, Iraq and Saudi Arabia, allowing a limited portion of Gulf oil exports to continue reaching international markets despite the disruption.
Among the operators maintaining activity in the route is Greece-based Dynacom Tankers Management, which has reportedly continued Hormuz crossings during the conflict. Reports indicate that some operators have adopted alternative operating measures to manage transit risks in the increasingly volatile environment.
Although the successful crossings represent only a fraction of normal traffic levels, analysts say they highlight the continued effort by some operators to preserve essential oil flows through the corridor despite elevated geopolitical and security pressures.