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Shippers Face Deepening Dilemma as U.S. and Iran Vie for Control of the Strait
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- Harry Vafias, CEO of StealthGas, successfully moved one vessel out of the Persian Gulf under U.S. military protection but is delaying sending another ship through the Strait of Hormuz due to escalating tensions between Iran and the U.S.
- The recent attacks between Iran and the United States have effectively ended a truce agreed upon the previous month, increasing risks for maritime traffic in the region.
- An international maritime risk assessment body has maintained a severe threat level in the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing conflicts and attacks on vessels.
- Despite a mid-June deal between President Trump and Iran’s president offering hope for safer passage, Iran continues to assert control over the strait, prompting ships to use routes near Oman under U.S. military escort.
- Following Iranian attacks on three vessels, the U.S. launched retaliatory strikes on 170 targets in Iran, while Qatari mediators are attempting to negotiate a cease-fire.
