Three China-linked supertankers have turned around in the Strait of Hormuz as security risks continue to affect shipping in the region, according to a GCaptain report based on Bloomberg information. The Sea V, carrying Iraqi crude, turned back while heading toward the strait from the Persian Gulf and is now waiting near the entrance. The Hestia also changed course after entering the gulf, while the Iraq-bound Erecter made a U-turn as well. The reasons for the changes are not clear.
The three VLCCs are Hong Kong-flagged and were showing Chinese crew details. Visible traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed sharply amid the risk of further attacks. The UK Navy reported that a vessel was hit by an unknown projectile while leaving the gulf along the Omani coast on Tuesday.
The situation remains uncertain after US President Donald Trump said there were no ongoing talks with Iran. Iran’s lead negotiator said the strait would not reopen until Washington meets several demands, including lifting the naval blockade, removing oil sanctions and ending military operations.
Despite the risks, some tankers still appear to be crossing Hormuz. The Liberia-flagged VLCCs Sweden Prosperity and Singapore Prosperity were tracked after periods with their AIS signals switched off, indicating that they may have crossed the waterway.
