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Jun 18, 2026 Major2
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Ships Resume Transit Through Strait of Hormuz Following U.S.-Iran Agreement
Following a U.S.-Iran agreement signed Wednesday, major shipping companies have resumed moving stranded vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for the first time in 110 days. While the main central route remains closed due to mines, ships are now transiting through northern and southern alternative routes.
Quick Facts
Who
Lloyd's List Intelligence
What
Ships resumed transit through Strait of Hormuz
When
Wednesday (agreement signed)
Where
Strait of Hormuz
- Ships resumed transit through Strait of Hormuz
- U.S. and Iran signed an agreement
- Vessels were stranded since February
- Northern and southern alternative routes now open
- Main central route remains closed due to mines
Major shipowners have begun moving vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for the first time in 110 days following a U.S.-Iran agreement signed on Wednesday, according to maritime data company Lloyd's List Intelligence. The strait, a critical global passageway for oil and natural gas, had been effectively closed since February, creating a historic energy crisis. Richard Meade, editor in chief of Lloyd's List, confirmed that ships owned by major companies including Grimaldi Group, Cosco, Knutsen, and NYK have successfully transited the waterway, alongside two Iran-flagged tankers operated by the National Iranian Tanker Company.
While the main central shipping route remains closed due to an estimated 80 mines requiring clearance, vessels are now utilizing two alternative passages. The northern route traverses Iranian waters while the southern route passes through Omani waters, with both routes now operating freely according to Phillip Belcher, marine director of Intertanko, a global trade group for independent tanker owners. This resumption of traffic marks a significant breakthrough in restoring vital energy supply routes after months of disruption.
Lloyd's List estimates that approximately 550 merchant vessels currently in the Persian Gulf will need to exit, including 160 tankers, 200 bulk carriers, 60 container ships, and 10 vehicle carriers. The reopening of alternative transit routes provides immediate relief to global energy markets, though full restoration of shipping capacity depends on clearing the mines blocking the main central channel.
Why This Matters
The resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz directly impacts global energy security and oil prices. After 110 days of disruption, the reopening of alternative routes provides immediate relief to international energy markets and prevents further supply chain crises. For businesses and consumers, this agreement signals stabilization of oil and natural gas supplies, reducing inflationary pressure and supporting economic activity globally.