London, Britain – Two Chinese container ships turned back after a failed attempt to transit the Strait of Hormuz,
a further indication of the continued risks in one of the world’s most important shipping lanes.
This occurred despite assurances from Iran that some vessels would be allowed to pass, according to Reuters.
Incomplete crossing attempt
Ship tracking data showed that the two vessels attempted to transit the Strait of Hormuz
on Friday morning before turning back and returning to the Gulf.
This was the first such attempt by a major shipping company since the start of the war.
The two vessels, belonging to the Chinese company COSCO,
had been stranded in the area since the military escalation began in late February.
Maritime analysts indicated that this incident reflects the continued uncertainty surrounding navigational safety,
even for ships from countries considered “friendly” by Tehran.
Iranian assurances are conditional
Iran had previously announced it would allow the passage of ships
from certain countries, including China, Russia, and India.
However, it emphasized that it would unilaterally determine which ships could transit its waters.
It also reiterated its ban on the passage of ships linked to the United States, Israel, or their allies.
In this context, reports have emerged of limited passage by some tankers in recent days.
These included Indian and Thai tankers, whose passage was facilitated through diplomatic channels.
Widespread disruption to maritime navigation
Attacks and threats in the Gulf have caused significant disruption to shipping,
leaving hundreds of vessels and thousands of sailors stranded in the region.
Navigation has been severely restricted recently, consisting mostly of Iranian tankers or ships bound for Iranian ports.
This comes as international officials have indicated that a resumption of political negotiations
could help restore stability to navigation through the Strait of Hormuz,
a vital waterway for a large portion of the world’s energy supply.
