On June 24, 78 vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz, the highest single-day traffic since the outbreak of the conflict involving Iran, according to multiple sources [1, 2, 3]. This represents a daily average vessel transit recovery to about 57% of pre-conflict levels for June so far [1, 2, 3]. Some sources report the number slightly lower, estimating around 70 vessels on June 24 and recovery at about 50% or less, reflecting ongoing disruptions [4, 5].
The total number of vessels passing through the Strait in June as of the 24th reached 551, potentially making it the busiest month since the conflict began [1, 2, 3]. Of the vessels transiting on the 24th, 33 used a newly reopened southern route through the Strait, established by Oman and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to ease navigation amid regional tensions [1].
Iran, however, demands ships transit via the northern route under its strict control and approval. This has complicated vessel movements, with some ships turning back after receiving warnings from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard. Four oil tankers reportedly reversed course after entering the southern route on June 24 due to Iranian radio warnings on unauthorized navigation [1].
Richard Meade, editor of Lloyd’s List, said Iran continues "strict control of the northern route," restricting passage to select ships with special permits. He also warned, "Non-Iranian vessels relying on the U.S. Navy-monitored southern Oman route should not mistake this for normal conditions restored" [4].
The volume of oil passing through the Strait remains significant. On June 25, six oil tankers carrying over 10 million barrels of crude passed through the Strait [6]. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright reported that about 20 million barrels of oil crossed the Strait in the prior 24 hours, representing roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption [6]. Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr stated Oman will ensure the strategic waterway remains free and safe and confirmed there will be no transit fees imposed [6].
Security efforts continue, including a UK naval mine-clearing mission that began transiting the Red Sea on June 23 to remove navigation hazards in the Strait [4, 5]. On June 26, a cargo ship in the Strait was damaged by an unknown projectile, but no casualties were reported [4, 5]. Iran has warned that unauthorized ship transits will face consequences [4, 5].
Meanwhile, a UN-led operation began evacuating around 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf starting on June 23, addressing humanitarian concerns caused by the conflict [4, 5].
Ship traffic remains disrupted but shows signs of recovery with multiple routes in use under different controls. The situation remains fluid as vessel numbers approach just over half of normal levels amid continuing tensions and maritime risks.
