TEHRAN — Iran continued its restrictions on commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, maintaining a near-total blockade of the critical waterway more than a month into the conflict with the United States and Israel.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces have enforced warnings against unauthorized vessels, allowing only limited approved transits while attacking or turning back others attempting passage. Timelapse data from maritime tracking services showed a sharp decline in tanker and cargo movements over recent days, with traffic reduced to sporadic activity compared with normal levels.
The strait, between Iran and Oman, normally carries about 20 million barrels per day of crude oil and petroleum products, representing roughly one-fifth of global seaborne oil trade and a significant share of liquefied natural gas shipments. Most flows head to Asian markets, with China receiving the largest portion. The disruption has contributed to elevated global oil prices and forced rerouting of vessels, increasing shipping costs and delays.
The restrictions began in early March after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in late February. Iran has described the measures as a response to the attacks and has vowed to target any ships attempting to breach the closure. Some reports indicated Iranian forces directed certain tankers through alternative narrow passages under Revolutionary Guard control, sometimes requiring payments for safe passage.
President Donald Trump extended a deadline for Iran to reopen the strait to April 6, citing backchannel talks, but warned of potential further U.S. action against Iranian energy infrastructure if the waterway remains closed. The U.S. has increased military presence in the region, including additional troop deployments and naval assets positioned to support freedom of navigation.
The blockade has affected thousands of seafarers and major shipping companies, which have suspended operations in the area. Energy markets have shown volatility, with Brent crude prices rising significantly since the conflict escalated.
As of Saturday, maritime traffic in the strait remained heavily restricted, with only limited approved movements reported. U.S. Central Command and regional allies continued to monitor the situation, while diplomatic contacts through intermediaries proceeded amid ongoing military activities in the Persian Gulf.