Hormuz traffic is up, but confusion reigns over the strait and tolls remain on the table
- Strait of Hormuz transits jumped after the partial reopening, but traffic is split between rival Iranian and US-backed routes, creating widespread operational confusion
- Iran and Oman continue to challenge US claims the strait will remain toll-free, keeping the prospect of paid passage alive
- A wave of ballasting VLCCs is now diverting toward the Middle East, with many vessels gathering off Oman awaiting clearance to transit the strait
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has surged after a partial reopening, but shipowners face a chaotic two-route system and renewed uncertainty as Iran, Oman and the US clash over control — while the prospect of tolls refuses to die
