Washington: The United States is reportedly preparing to enforce a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz starting today, a critical global oil shipping route, according to reports from US Central Command.
Under the plan, vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports would be restricted, aiming to curb Iran’s oil exports. US President Donald Trump stated that several allied nations are supporting this move and claimed that Iran’s military capabilities have been significantly weakened, including major damage to its naval forces.
Oil Markets React Sharply
Following the announcement, global crude oil prices surged sharply. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose above $104 per barrel, while Brent crude crossed the $102 mark, raising concerns of a global energy shock.
Military Tensions and Possible Escalation
A report by The Wall Street Journal suggested that the US is also considering new military strikes on Iran after diplomatic discussions reportedly failed in Pakistan. The White House has stated that all options remain on the table, depending on how the situation develops.
Shipping Disruptions in the Strait
Meanwhile, unusual maritime movements were reported in the Strait of Hormuz. Two large oil tankers reportedly made sudden U-turns near the region after initially heading toward the Persian Gulf.
Tracking data showed that three large empty supertankers were approaching the strait via the Gulf of Oman, apparently cleared by Iranian authorities. However, the situation changed abruptly near Iran’s Larak Island, forcing vessels to alter course.
Among them, the tanker Agios Fanourios, heading toward Iraq, and the Pakistan-flagged vessel Shalimar, bound for the United Arab Emirates, reportedly reversed direction at the last moment.
While the exact reason remains unclear, analysts suggest that rising geopolitical tensions and security risks may have forced shipping companies to reconsider passage through the strategic waterway.
