Traffic Resumes in Strait of Hormuz as Trump Claims Safe Passage

Donald Trump announced on Monday that oil-laden tankers are successfully navigating the Strait of Hormuz via a secure southern maritime route, signaling a potential stabilization of regional shipping operations.

Trump’s Claims of a Secure Route

Donald Trump stated via Truth Social that ships, including those carrying crude oil, have begun exiting the Strait of Hormuz. He described the southern shipping lane as a completely secure and protected “highway,” though he provided no further details regarding the logistics of this route.

Historical Context of the Southern Lane

The “southern highway” likely refers to the channel near the Omani coast. Previously, the U.S. military reportedly facilitated the covert passage of tankers through this corridor, an operation Trump claims allowed 100 million barrels of oil to reach the global market prior to the deal with Iran.

Market Impact and Diplomatic Tensions

The announcement of a preliminary deal to open the strait and lift the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports has led to a significant drop in oil prices, with Brent crude falling approximately 5% to $83 per barrel.

Conflicting Narratives on Transit Fees

Vice President J.D. Vance recently corroborated reports of increased traffic, asserting that no transit fees are being collected by Iranian authorities. While the Iranian Fars agency reported otherwise, Vance dismissed those claims as domestic propaganda intended for internal Iranian consumption.