Strait of Hormuz shipping slowed on Friday after a Taiwanese-operated vessel was reportedly struck near the Omani side of the strategic waterway, according to ship-tracking data. The incident has renewed concerns about maritime security even after the recent ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.
The attack prompted the United Nations’ shipping agency to temporarily suspend its voluntary evacuation program for stranded vessels and seafarers in the Gulf. The decision was taken after the damaged ship raised fresh safety concerns for commercial traffic passing through the region.
Despite the disruption, several oil tankers continued entering the Gulf to load crude oil. Shipping data showed that at least four tankers, including three very large crude carriers, transited the route, while additional supertankers entered to transport Iranian oil. One tanker also departed the Strait carrying approximately two million barrels of crude.
The latest developments come as global oil buyers seek to rebuild inventories after months of supply disruptions linked to the Iran conflict. Following the ceasefire, hopes had risen that regional shipping activity and energy exports would gradually return to normal.
Market sentiment improved as crude oil prices declined by more than three percent on Friday due to easing supply concerns. Saudi Arabia also resumed oil loadings in the Gulf, providing further support to expectations of increased global crude supplies.
Industry officials, however, cautioned that Strait of Hormuz shipping has not yet fully recovered. Maritime experts stressed that stable navigation depends on clear security arrangements and continued diplomatic coordination between Washington and Tehran to ensure safe commercial passage.
According to shipping analysts, vessel movements through the Strait remained below pre-conflict levels despite recent improvements. The latest attack highlights that Strait of Hormuz shipping continues to face operational challenges, making maritime security a key concern for global energy markets.
