en.Wedoany.com Report on Mar 25th, Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is increasingly diverting into Iranian territorial waters, a route dubbed the "Tehran Toll Road." Data shows over 20 vessels with deadweight exceeding 10,000 tons have navigated between Qeshm Island and Larak Island, with two "ghost" tankers using the identities of deregistered vessels. At least two ships have reportedly paid fees for safe passage, with one payment said to be around $2 million.
Despite reduced traffic due to the conflict, vessel transits accelerated over the weekend. Analysis by Lloyd's List Intelligence indicates at least 16 ships have passed through the strait since Friday, with 12 using the new route through Iranian territorial waters. The increased use of the new route may be linked to diplomatic agreements with Iran.
On Monday, two Indian-flagged very large gas carriers (VLGCs) transited the Strait of Hormuz, carrying over 92,600 tons of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), scheduled to arrive at Indian ports between March 26 and 28. India's LPG shortage has prompted government negotiations with Tehran to secure supplies.
The status of diplomatic talks regarding strait security remains unclear. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi reiterated, "The Strait of Hormuz is not closed." He stated via Telegram channel: "Vessels are being blocked because insurers fear a 'selective war,' and this war is being waged by you, not by Iran." "Freedom of navigation is impossible without freedom of trade. You either have both, or you have neither."
The risk to commercial shipping remains "critical," with efforts underway to form an international security coalition. Trump stated on Saturday: "The Strait of Hormuz must be guarded and regulated by the other countries that use it, if necessary—the U.S. will not do it!" This has catalyzed negotiations among European nations, with a joint UK-France coordination mission under discussion, potentially involving a "monitoring" force.
Identities used during the diversions include the Japanese-flagged LNG Jamal and the Liberian-flagged Nabiin, both vessels that have been scrapped. The LNG Jamal identity appeared briefly on March 13 and 20, coinciding with sanctioned vessel timelines, but further analysis is limited. The Nabiin identity was spoofed, displaying a Mozambique flag and the name Nature Heart.
