Multiple outlets report that several oil and gas tankers and other cargo vessels U-turn and change course near the Strait of Hormuz after approaching the waterway. Tracking data cited by outlets indicates that some ships reverse direction after moving westward toward the strait, while others attempt to cross using alternative routes. One report says at least one fuel tanker makes a fresh attempt after turning, sailing past the tip of Oman’s Musandam peninsula before entering an Oman-side route.
Another set of reports links the rerouting to Iran’s stated position on transit. Iran has repeatedly said vessels should transit only via the route designated and authorized by the Islamic Republic. The reporting also notes that the reasons for the U-turns are not fully established, though ships appear to be adjusting movements as they seek to avoid Iran’s military presence.
The vessels mentioned include LNG and oil and gas tankers, with analytics firms Kpler and LSEG cited in one account identifying LNG tankers Al Ghariya, Duhail and Al Ruwais turning away late on Tuesday. Overall, the incidents change what flows through and how ships traverse the strategic chokepoint.
