Nearly 100 ships pass the Hormuz Strait - who is getting through?
Just under 100 ships have passed thorough the Strait of Hormuz since the start of March, according to data analysed by BBC Verify.
www.bbc.comHere’s a concise update on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, based on recent public reporting up to April 2026.
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Situation as of mid-April 2026: Reports indicate intermittent movement of ships through the Strait after a period of heightened disruption tied to broader conflict. Some articles describe limited crossings and ongoing restrictions, with Iran asserting control and requiring coordination for passage. While a few tankers and other vessels have been observed moving through, overall traffic remains far below typical levels, reflecting continued tension and security measures in the waterway.[2][3][4][6][7]
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Open vs closed status: The strait has alternated between restricted and periodically reopened phases, with Iran claiming the right to manage and restrict transit and outside powers (notably the U.S. blockade) asserting enforcement of their positions. Observers note that “open” passages have been fragile and subject to abrupt reversals depending on security developments and military actions.[3][7][2]
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Traffic volume context: In March 2026, traffic through Hormuz was described as minimal, with near-record low daily transits compared with pre-conflict levels, before some reported resumptions in April as conditions shifted. BBC Verify analysis also highlighted a sharp drop in daily crossings since the conflict began.[4][6]
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Notable incidents: There were multiple reports of attacks or threats against vessels, with Iran firing on or signaling restrictions for ships and gunboat activity noted in several updates; vessels that did move often did so under explicit coordination or after being allowed passage by Iranian authorities.[7][9][3]
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What this means for mariners: Even when passages reappear, expect tight controls, mandatory coordination with Iranian authorities or allied regional commands, and potential sudden disruptions. Markets and insurers typically react to flash events, so routing decisions may change quickly as the security situation evolves.[5][2]
If you’d like, I can pull a rolling 7–10 day snapshot from specific tracking sources and provide a short chart of crossings by day, plus a quick risk brief tailored to voyages you’re planning. Also tell me your preferred date window and whether you want a focus on oil, gas, or general cargo traffic.
Citations:
- Latest Hormuz updates and open/closed statuses[1][2]
- Reports of movement through the strait in April 2026[2][7]
- Traffic levels and closure notes through March 2026[6][4]
- Incidents and coordination requirements for passage[9][3]