Oil Tanker Traffic Plunges as US Blockade Threatens Strait of Hormuz
Updated
Updated · CNBC · Apr 13
Oil Tanker Traffic Plunges as US Blockade Threatens Strait of Hormuz
49 articles · Updated · CNBC · Apr 13
Oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has sharply declined amid US blockade threats and heightened Iran-US tensions.
Several tankers have rerouted or turned back, while some Chinese and other vessels attempted passage under new Iranian controls and amid chaotic shipping activity.
The crisis threatens global oil supply, with Brent crude rising and analysts warning of severe economic risks if the disruption continues.
With US and Iranian blockades set to clash, is the world's oil artery now permanently severed?
How will the new US blockade impact global food and energy prices for consumers?
As the UK rejects the US blockade, are Western alliances fracturing under the pressure?
Did temporary US oil waivers inadvertently fund the very conflict they aimed to mitigate?
Can a US naval blockade succeed where diplomacy failed without triggering a full-scale war?
Is Russia's 'shadow fleet' exploiting the chaos in the Strait of Hormuz for profit?
U.S. Naval Blockade of Iranian Ports Halts 95% of Strait of Hormuz Traffic, Triggering Historic Oil Supply Shock
Overview
Following the collapse of peace talks, the U.S. initiated a naval blockade of Iranian ports on April 13, 2026, aiming to halt Iran's maritime trade while keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for non-Iranian vessels. This blockade caused tanker traffic through the strait to plunge, triggering the largest oil supply disruption in history and a sharp rise in global oil prices. Iran responded by deploying naval mines and imposing transit fees, complicating U.S. enforcement and escalating regional tensions. The blockade faced international criticism, with key allies distancing themselves and China condemning the action. Despite efforts, Iran continued exporting oil to China, highlighting challenges in fully isolating Iran and deepening global economic and diplomatic strains.