Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
Dubai, Apr 14: A US-sanctioned Chinese tanker has successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz despite an ongoing American naval blockade, highlighting the growing strain on enforcement efforts in the region.
Shipping data from multiple tracking agencies showed that the tanker Rich Starry became the first vessel to transit the strait and exit the Gulf since the blockade was imposed by the United States Central Command on Monday.
The vessel, owned by Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Co Ltd, had earlier been sanctioned by the United States for alleged dealings with Iran. It is carrying around 250,000 barrels of methanol, loaded from the UAE’s Hamriyah port, and has a Chinese crew onboard.
In a related development, another US-sanctioned tanker, Murlikishan, also entered the strait on Tuesday and is expected to load fuel oil from Iraq later this week, according to shipping data.
The passage of these vessels comes amid heightened tensions following the US decision to blockade Iranian ports, a move that has drawn sharp reactions from Tehran and raised concerns over global energy security.
US President Donald Trump has warned that any Iranian vessels or ships complying with Tehran’s toll system would be blocked, and that Iranian naval craft approaching US ships could be targeted.
Despite the escalating situation, diplomatic channels remain open. Officials indicated continued engagement after weekend talks in Islamabad failed to yield a breakthrough, with efforts ongoing to reach a possible agreement.
Since the conflict began in late February, Iran has tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz, allowing passage only under its conditions. The narrow waterway is critical to global energy supplies, with nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas trade passing through it under normal circumstances.
Iran has warned of retaliation against naval forces and Gulf ports if its interests are threatened, underscoring the fragile situation in one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors.