Western-backed maritime forces in the Middle East have issued a stark warning to shippers traveling through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. They have advised them to stay as far away from Iranian territorial waters as possible to avoid being seized. This warning comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States.
Similar warnings were issued earlier this year when Iran seized two tankers near the strait, which is the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf and through which 20 percent of the world’s oil passes. Despite the apparent deal between Iran and the U.S., tensions at sea remain high. The U.S. is considering placing armed troops on commercial ships in the strait to deter Iran, given the buildup of troops, ships, and aircraft in the region.
The U.S.-backed International Maritime Security Construct has been notifying regional mariners about the need to minimize the risk of seizure based on current tensions in the region. Vessels are being advised to transit as far away from Iranian territorial waters as possible.
Additionally, a European Union-led maritime organization, the European Maritime Awareness in the Strait of Hormuz, has warned of a potential attack on a merchant vessel within the next 12 to 72 hours. Private intelligence firm Ambrey highlighted that a previous warning resulted in a merchant vessel being seized under false pretenses by Iranian authorities.
Iran has not acknowledged any new plans to interdict vessels in the strait through its state media. The Strait of Hormuz, located in the territorial waters of Iran and Oman, is a vital shipping lane, with a width of only 3 kilometers (2 miles) in either direction. Any disruption in the strait’s shipping affects global energy markets, potentially leading to an increase in crude oil prices and impacting consumers.
Attacks on ships attributed to Iran have been ongoing since 2019, following the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and the reimposition of sanctions. Recent incidents include the seizure of a ship carrying oil for Chevron Corp. and the seizure of the Niovi tanker. These incidents have prompted a major deployment of U.S. military forces in the region.