STRAIT OF HORMUZ — Multiple oil and gas tankers navigated the Strait of Hormuz from July 3 to July 5, 2026, as regional tensions increased due to Iranian threats and naval harassment. Some vessels altered course or made U-turns during this period.

On Sunday, July 5, six oil and gas freighters were observed traveling along a route near Oman's coast. That same day, a fuel tanker attempted a transit through the Strait of Hormuz, sailing past the tip of Oman's Musandam peninsula. Earlier on Sunday, a products tanker moved along this route, signaling its intentions. This products tanker is now broadcasting its location in the Gulf of Oman. Additionally, a Suezmax crude carrier appeared in the Gulf of Oman on Sunday, after its last reported location in the Persian Gulf on Saturday, July 4.

Over Friday and Saturday, July 3-4, at least eight vessels made U-turns while sailing through the Strait of Hormuz on the Omani route. Four of these vessels subsequently sailed northward towards the Iranian route and exited the strait. During this time, two small tankers exited the Persian Gulf by sailing closer to Iran.

Western navies stated that the threat risk in the Strait of Hormuz is substantial. These navies also reported that the center of the Strait of Hormuz has been mined. The Joint Maritime Intelligence Center stated on Sunday, July 5, that Iranian forces continue to harass shipping. Several ships attempting to leave the Persian Gulf through Hormuz have reported receiving radio warnings from Iranian forces not to proceed without permission.

On Saturday, July 4, 19 vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz in either direction, according to Kpler data. Only one vessel openly signaled an inbound transit along the Omani coast that day. On Friday, July 3, 13 vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani route, Kpler data showed.

Why It Matters

The Strait of Hormuz is a global shipping lane for oil and gas, connecting the Persian Gulf with the open sea. The reported incidents of altered routes, U-turns, and harassment of tankers by Iranian forces indicate disruptions for maritime traffic in the region. Iran has stated that vessels should transit through its designated and authorized route, a position that contrasts with international shipping practices.