Traffic Moves in the Strait of Hormuz Despite U.S. Blockade

WASHINGTON, April 14 – More than twenty merchant vessels navigated the Strait of Hormuz in a 24-hour period, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing U.S. officials. This movement comes as a U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports enters its second day.

The ships, a mix of cargo carriers, container ships, and tankers, traveled in both directions through the narrow waterway. The Journal noted that several vessels had their transponders switched off, a practice that obscures their precise location and identity.

This maritime activity unfolds against a significant military backdrop. U.S. Central Command stated on Tuesday that the blockade operation involves over 10,000 personnel, supported by dozens of aircraft and warships. However, CNN reports that U.S. Navy ships are not providing direct escorts through the strait, instead maintaining communication with commercial traffic.

The U.S. blockade, initiated on April 13, targets all sea traffic entering or leaving Iranian ports on both sides of the strait. This chokepoint is vital for global energy, handling an estimated one-fifth of the world's seaborne oil, petroleum products, and liquefied natural gas. Washington insists vessels unrelated to Iran may pass freely, provided they have not paid transit fees to Tehran. While Iranian authorities have discussed plans for such fees, they have not formally announced any charges.