A container ship was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, prompting some
shipowners to re-evaluate withdrawal plans, though two-way traffic continued.
Vessel-tracking shows two fully laden tankers exiting the Persian Gulf while
four VLCCs in ballast are steaming along the Gulf of Oman coast — the southern
route managed by Oman and coordinated with the US. Other vessels are using the
northern, Iran-side route. Control of the strait remains a US‑Iran flashpoint.
The US this week said Iran must keep the strait open to secure a lasting peace;
Secretary of State Rubio warned that if Iran imposes transit fees others may
follow, risking wider disruption. Washington is pressing Oman not to establish a
joint fee system with Iran. Oman’s position is unclear: a joint Iran‑Oman
statement on Tuesday said they would discuss transit management and costs, but
Rubio said on Thursday Oman assured him it does not support charging for
passage.
