Tensions Rise as Strait of Hormuz Reopens Briefly, Then Faces Fresh Disruption
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Teheran
- Apr 18, 2026
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At least eight oil and gas tankers crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday after Iran briefly signalled that the vital shipping route was open during an ongoing ceasefire in the Middle East conflict.
However, the situation remained volatile. Later in the day, two merchant vessels reported coming under gunfire while attempting to transit the strait, according to Reuters, citing maritime security sources. The extent of the damage was not immediately known.
The developments came shortly after Iran announced a renewed blockade of the strait, reversing its earlier position during talks with the United States.
Shipping data showed that vessels passing through included crude oil tankers, liquefied petroleum gas carriers, and chemical tankers. Despite this movement, overall traffic in the region remained uneven.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global trade route, typically handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. However, activity has declined sharply since tensions escalated following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.
Data indicated that several vessels approaching the strait turned back near Larak Island, which has been acting as a checkpoint under Iranian control during the blockade.
Later on Saturday, Iran’s military signalled a shift again, stating that “strict management” of the strait would resume in response to a U.S. naval counter-blockade.
The earlier closure has left hundreds of vessels stranded in the Gulf and contributed to rising oil prices and increased shipping costs. Many operators continue to avoid the route due to security risks, including potential attacks and sea mines.
Among the ships that managed to pass were some reportedly under U.S. sanctions. Others signalled destinations such as India or China, possibly to indicate neutrality amid rising tensions.
In a rare development, the cruise ship Celestyal Discovery crossed the strait on Friday, marking the first passenger vessel transit since the conflict began. The ship reportedly sailed without passengers after remaining docked in the UAE for over six weeks.
Despite the temporary reopening, global shipping bodies have urged caution, warning that mine-related threats in the area remain unclear and advising companies to consider avoiding the route.