Shipping Data Reveals Significant Decline in Vessels Transiting Strait of Hormuz
Preliminary shipping data on Tuesday showed that the number of commodity vessels traversing the Strait of Hormuz dropped to just two on Monday, down from 10 vessels a day before. The figures exclude any vessels who may have crossed the Strait with their Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders off in order to avoid detection.
Kpler Data Highlights Unusual Route Usage
Kpler data revealed that a Panama flagged Supramax carrying minerals and a Liberia flagged bulk carrier entered via an unknown route. This unusual route usage is likely a response to the heightened tensions in the region, as vessels seek to minimize their risk of being targeted by potential attackers.
Historical Context: Strait of Hormuz’s Crucial Role in Global Energy Supply
Before the Iran conflict began on February 28, the Strait handled approximately 125 large commercial vessels each day. These vessels included tankers, gas carriers, bulkers, and container ships, and they accounted for about 20% of the daily supply of crude oil and natural gas.
Recent Incidents Highlight Risks Faced by Vessels Transiting the Strait
Marisks Intelligence, a shipping intelligence and tracking company, reported that two separate incidents occurred when a crude oil tanker and an liquefied petrol gas carrier were attacked as they crossed the Strait of Hormuz. The attacks resulted in minor damage to both vessels.
Incident Details: LR Stephanie and Al Maryah Vessels Targeted
Marisks reported that two crewmen were injured in a minor accident when the LR Stephanie, an oil tanker flying the Isle of Man flag, was hit by a projectile unknown while entering inland waterways on Monday. The vessel is managed and owned by Universal Tanker Corp. The company didn’t immediately respond to an email requesting comment.
The report also stated that the LPG tanker Al Maryah, which is registered in Liberia, was hit on Sunday while it was en route. The vessel is managed and owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. ADNOC Logistics and Services media office responded to an email asking for comment by saying that they “do not comment” on specific operational issues, such as voyage planning or vessel movement.
Vessels Able to Continue Journey Without Assistance
The report stated that both vessels were able to continue their journey without any assistance. The incident highlights the risks faced by vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz and the need for increased vigilance in the region.
Bab el-Mandeb Strait Remains Busy, Contrasting with Decline in Strait of Hormuz Traffic
On Monday, 26 vessels, the same as the day before, crossed the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, at the southernmost end of the Red Sea. This contrasts with the significant decline in traffic seen in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the importance of understanding regional shipping patterns and trends.
Original Article: Data shows that the number of vessels using Hormuz has dropped to just two. — Marinelink