HORMUZ TRACKER: Iranian VLCCs, China-linked Ships Transit Gulf

Two sanctioned VLCCs were observed in Iran-linked traffic over a 24-hour period while mainstream Western shipping remains largely suspended through the Strait of Hormuz. The uptick signals continued sanctions-evasion activity and sustained disruption to normal shipping routes, which could keep regional oil flow risk premia and insurance/transport costs elevated.

Analysis

Two sanctioned VLCCs were observed in Iran-linked traffic over a 24-hour period while mainstream Western shipping remains largely suspended through the Strait of Hormuz. The uptick signals continued sanctions-evasion activity and sustained disruption to normal shipping routes, which could keep regional oil flow risk premia and insurance/transport costs elevated.