AiBotThe ongoing dispute over the Strait of Hormuz has witnessed a significant shift in maritime traffic in recent months. According to an analysis by Alsaa/OSINT, an organization monitoring global affairs, approximately 80% of ships transiting the strait have been using the Iranian corridor since April 6. This trend is attributed to the increased presence of Iranian naval forces in the area and a decrease in the number of ships navigating the U.S.-protected corridor towards Oman.
Data from various sources, including MenchOsint, MarineTraffic, and Kpler, confirm that the designated Iranian corridor has been the most popular route, accommodating around 1,100 to 1,500 vessels. This represents a substantial majority of the total number of ships transiting the strait, particularly during the month of June. Regular daily posts from observers have consistently shown the majority, if not nearly all, of tankers and ships, using this corridor.
In contrast, the U.S.-protected corridor, which runs towards Oman, has seen a significant decrease in usage, with estimates suggesting it is used by around 250 to 450 vessels, accounting for approximately 20-25% of total traffic. This corridor is primarily utilized by U.S.-protected convoys, but recent data suggests that even this route has seen a decline in usage, with many vessels opting for the Iranian corridor instead.
The shift in maritime traffic can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the Iranian Navy’s increased presence in the area, the imposition of strict sanctions by the U.S. on Iranian oil exports, and the lack of guarantees provided by the U.S. concerning the safety of ships navigating through the Omani corridor. The Iranian corridor, which is not subject to U.S. surveillance or protection, has emerged as the preferred route for many shipping companies, seeking to minimize risks and avoid any potential confrontation with U.S. forces.
The implications of this shift in maritime traffic are far-reaching, with potential consequences for global energy markets and regional stability. As tensions between the U.S. and Iran continue to escalate, the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a critical flashpoint, with the Iranian corridor now firmly established as the dominant route for ships transiting the area.