Conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran have caused congestion in the global energy transport route, the Strait of Hormuz.
Shipping data shows that only 77 ships have passed through the Strait of Hormuz since March 1. By comparison, from March 1 to 11 last year, 1,229 ships passed through the strait.
On the 13th, AFP cited a report from the UK’s Lloyd’s List Intelligence, stating that among the 77 ships, most were old and in poor condition, lacked appropriate insurance, and had unclear ownership.
This institution, which provides maritime data and analysis services, said most of these vessels belong to the so-called “shadow fleet,” that is, tankers and LNG carriers circumventing Western sanctions.
Since the US and Israel launched large-scale military operations against Iran on February 28, shipping risks at the Strait of Hormuz have surged, with a large number of vessels suspending voyages or rerouting to avoid danger.
According to data from the UK Maritime Trade Operations office, since early March, 20 commercial vessels, including 9 oil tankers, have been attacked or reported incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waters.