Strait of Hormuz traffic grinds to a halt as waterway closes again
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- Maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz stopped after two vessels were struck in separate incidents.
- Iran’s IRGC warned ships approaching the waterway could be treated as hostile targets.
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz came to a standstill again on Saturday after two vessels were targeted in separate incidents, forcing most ships in the area to divert toward safer waters in the Gulf of Oman or deeper into the Persian Gulf, according to maritime tracking data.
Read more: Iran reinstates restrictions on Strait of Hormuz amid escalating US tensions
The disruption marks another escalation in one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, where a significant share of global oil shipments normally passes daily.
Tanker hit by gunfire, second vessel struck by projectile
According to maritime monitoring sources, Iranian gunboats opened fire on a tanker transiting the waterway, while a second vessel was reportedly struck by what was described as an “unknown projectile.”
Read more: UN maritime agency warns of shipping crisis near Strait of Hormuz
The UK Maritime Traffic Organization confirmed the incidents, saying it was tracking multiple reports of maritime security threats in the area.
Following the attacks, vessel movements sharply declined, with ships either halting transit or changing course away from the strait.
India summons envoy after ships caught in incident
India said two vessels sailing under its flag were involved in incidents in the strait, prompting New Delhi to summon Iran’s ambassador for consultations.
Authorities have not released full details on the extent of the damage or whether there were casualties among crew members.
IRGC issues blockade warning
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that it would move to block the strait, stating that approaching the waterway would be treated as cooperation with hostile forces.
In a statement, the IRGC said any vessel entering the area under disputed conditions could be targeted, escalating concerns over further disruptions to global maritime traffic.
Strategic chokepoint under pressure
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, linking Gulf oil producers to international markets.
Repeated disruptions have heightened fears among shipping companies and governments over supply stability, insurance costs, and the risk of broader regional escalation if tensions continue to intensify.
