More than 1500 commercial ships and 22,000 sailors are facing significant danger in the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has closed since February 2026. According to American reports, the number of trapped ships ranges between 1550 and 1600, threatening global trade flows.
This crisis comes amid escalating military tensions between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other. Iran has responded to military operations with missile and drone attacks, leading to warnings from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard that prevent ships from passing through the strait.
Details of the Incident
On February 28, 2026, military operations against Iran began, resulting in a near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. forces claimed that Iran had planted sea mines in the area, increasing the risks to navigation.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump initiated a humanitarian project to guide ships through the strait, but the plan was only successful for 48 hours, with only two ships managing to depart. The Danish shipping company Maersk confirmed that one of its vessels was among those directed to leave.
Background & Context
Historically, the Strait of Hormuz is a vital point for oil transportation, with approximately 20% of global oil supplies passing through it. However, the current situation reflects escalating regional tensions that threaten the stability of the global economy.
Analysis from Lloyd's List Intelligence showed a decrease in the number of ships passing through from 44 to 36 vessels over the past week, indicating a significant decline compared to normal days when more than 120 ships would transit.
Impact & Consequences
Experts confirm that the continuation of this crisis will exacerbate congestion in the strait, negatively impacting the global economy. General Dan Kine noted that Iran aims to disrupt commercial navigation, threatening global supply chains.
Officials have warned that any long-term agreement to ensure safe navigation in the strait will be essential to avoid further crises. Shipping companies have expressed their reluctance to risk crossing under the current conditions.
Regional Significance
The repercussions of the current crisis extend beyond the Strait of Hormuz, affecting the stability of the Arab region as a whole. With tensions between Iran and Western countries continuing, concerns are growing over the escalation of military conflicts in the area.
Arab nations are seeking diplomatic solutions to the crisis, as the current situation requires regional and international cooperation to ensure maritime stability and protect economic interests.
In conclusion, the Strait of Hormuz crisis remains one of the major challenges facing the global economy, necessitating a swift and effective response from the international community to prevent further escalation of crises.