US Naval Blockade Halts Most Shipping Through Strait of Hormuz Since April 13

The United States and its allies imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz on April 13.

“Strait of Hormuz crisis: Iran, shipping, and Australia's strategy When Iran deterred shipping from the Strait of Hormuz following Operation Epic Fury, it sent shockwaves through global energy markets and exposed uncomfortable truths about Australia's dependence on maritime trade”

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The blockade was enforced impartially against all vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas.

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Maritime tracking data showed some ships transiting the strait after the blockade began.

The blockade effectively froze most commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

The US blockade did not physically close the Strait of Hormuz, which is an international waterway.

Ships not related to Iran could still cross the strait, though many operators avoided it due to risk and insurance costs.

CBS News

Analysts noted that the US did not have to put ships in the Persian Gulf to enforce the blockade.

Despite the pressure campaign, Iran continued exporting oil.

The Agios Fanourios I became the first crude carrier to sail west through the Strait of Hormuz since the US blockade took effect.

“The United States’ blockade of Iranian ports has been “fully implemented” and put a halt to most of Tehran’s economic activity in just a day and a half, the head of US Central Command said Wednesday”

CNN

The tanker was bound for Basrah, Iraq, carrying an estimated 2 million barrels of oil.

President Trump announced that he was permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz.

Energy analysts said traffic had fallen by more than 90 percent.