Three Tankers Cross Strait of Hormuz: US Naval Blockade Begins

The United States has launched a naval blockade of Iranian ports, beginning April 13, 2026. This operation extends through the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea. US forces are warning that vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports may face interception or seizure. Here's the thing: shipping data reveals that on the first full day of the blockade, at least three tankers passed through the Strait of Hormuz. Among them was the Rich Starry, a Chinese-owned tanker carrying 250,000 barrels of methanol, marking it as the first vessel to exit the Gulf since the blockade started. Although the military presence is heightened, the Strait of Hormuz remains operational for non-Iranian vessels. The US Central Command has confirmed that ships headed to non-Iranian destinations are not targeted, allowing for a flow of neutral commercial traffic. This situation is crucial because the Strait of Hormuz is vital for global oil shipping, influencing prices and security in the region.