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Jun 19, 2026
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Strait of Hormuz Shipping to Remain Disrupted Until 80 Mines Cleared

AI Summary
Normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will not resume until around 80 mines are cleared, according to the independent tanker owner trade body Intertanko. The strait, a key maritime chokepoint, has been blocked since the conflict between the US and Iran, with vessels currently taking a detour near the Omani coast.

The Strait of Hormuz Blockade

The centre of the Strait of Hormuz is blocked with about 80 mines that will need clearing for normal shipping to resume, the independent tanker owner trade body has said.

Mines and Maritime Challenges

Several vessels began to exit the Gulf through the key maritime chokepoint on Thursday, after the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran. However, shipping is not expected to return to normal for some time, even if the ceasefire lasts, because of the mines and other obstacles, underlining the continuing challenges facing global trade.

Impact on Shipping and Trade

“The main route … through the middle of the strait of Hormuz, that’s closed, that’s dangerous,” said Phil Belcher, marine director at Intertanko, the association of independent tanker owners. “The latest figure we had was that there’s 80 mines in the strait of Hormuz. It’s an enormous amount and it’s going to take some time to clear.”

Risk of Collision and Disruption

With high numbers of vessels trying to pass through narrow areas of the strait, the shipping industry is warning of the risk of collision. This risk is intensified by the “signal jamming” that Iran has reportedly carried out during the conflict, where electronic interference has prevented ships’ navigating and positioning systems from operating, leaving them effectively sailing blind.

Future Outlook

Nearly 600 vessels are believed to still be in the Gulf, where they have been anchored since February, meaning the backlog will take time to clear. Richard Meade, editor-in-chief at maritime data provider Lloyd’s List, said: “We are in uncharted territory. I don’t think [shipping in the strait] is getting back to normal this year.”