The number of oil and gas tankers waiting for Iranian permission to transit the Strait of Hormuz is increasing. According to the Iranian Fars news agency, more than 350 tankers are congested in the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Gulf. Iran has requested these ships to shut down their systems and continue waiting, while other sources indicate much higher numbers that include other types of vessels.
According to previous data from the International Maritime Organization, about 20,000 sailors aboard approximately 3,200 ships, including gas and oil tankers and commercial vessels, have been stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz since Tehran announced its closure. At least 21 ships have been attacked or targeted since the beginning of the conflict.
Details of the Situation
In a related context, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that Iran is set to allow some oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as a positive step in negotiations, describing this decision as a "gift" that reflects Tehran's seriousness in ending the dispute. Trump also extended the deadline for Iran to open the strait until April 6, stating that he would postpone bombing nuclear power stations.
On the other hand, an analysis published by the British magazine Lloyd's List, which specializes in shipping and maritime navigation, reported that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard has imposed a system resembling "toll collection points" to control international shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Under this system, ships must submit all necessary documents and obtain clearance codes, in addition to accepting the Revolutionary Guard's escort through a single controlled passage within the strait.
Background & Context
Since the outbreak of the American-Israeli-Iranian war on February 28, Tehran has restricted navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, which is considered the main artery for transporting oil and gas globally, to all ships except for a few. It is noted that approximately 20 million barrels of oil pass through the strait daily, representing about 20% of the world's energy and liquefied gas supplies.
The closure of the strait has led to increased shipping and insurance costs, raising concerns about potential global economic repercussions. Many observers have expressed concern about the impact of these conditions on global energy markets.
Impact & Consequences
There are growing fears that the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to a significant rise in oil and energy prices, affecting the global economy. This situation may also exacerbate instability in the region and increase tensions between Iran and Western countries, particularly the United States.
Moreover, the Revolutionary Guard's imposition of a toll collection system may provoke negative reactions from other countries, potentially escalating tensions in the region. This system is seen as a new step by Tehran to enhance its control over shipping traffic in one of the world's most important maritime corridors.
Regional Significance
For Arab countries, the congestion of tankers in the Strait of Hormuz poses a direct threat to energy security and the economy. Many Arab nations rely on exporting oil and gas through this strait, and any disruption in navigation could negatively impact their revenues. Additionally, rising oil prices could lead to increased living costs in these countries, raising concerns among citizens.
In conclusion, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point of global interest, with everyone closely monitoring developments. Any changes in Iran's policy or the international community's response could significantly affect the economic and political conditions in the region.