Iran Resumes Oil Exports Through Hormuz Strait After US Lifts Naval Blockade Amid Ongoing Attacks

The recent resumption of fighting between Iran and the United States disrupted shipping traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, except for Iranian vessels. The US had aimed to pressure Iran by blocking its oil exports and forcing storage capacity to run out, inflicting long-term economic damage. However, with the ceasefire and lifting of the naval blockade on June 18, Iran quickly resumed exporting oil and importing goods through its ports. The removal of the blockade also reduced enforcement against Tehran's "shadow fleet," ships that covertly helped Iran circumvent US sanctions.

Despite the easing of restrictions, Iran continues to attack ships it claims violate the agreement, maintaining tension in the region. Analysis by the Wall Street Journal showed that in the three days following the ceasefire, over one-third of 101 vessels passing through Hormuz used the route near Iran’s coast, mostly transporting Iranian oil or goods. Since the blockade ended, more than 34 million barrels of Iranian crude have transited the strait. Some vessels previously subject to US sanctions, including a Benin-flagged tanker carrying two million barrels of Iranian oil and Iranian-owned ships linked to nuclear and missile programs, now move freely.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Oman to discuss establishing a shipping mechanism through Hormuz, in line with a memorandum of understanding. Qatari mediators also visited Tehran to urge Iran to halt attacks and reopen the strait, but Iran continues to issue threats. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman emphasized vigilance along strategic points and stated Iran is unwilling to continue negotiations due to US noncompliance with Islamabad agreements.

During the two-month blockade, US sanctions severely restricted Iran’s oil exports, forcing Tehran to choose between reducing production or yielding to US demands. The blockade’s removal immediately eased pressure by allowing imports and exports, including shipments to storage facilities in China. Food shipments also increased, alleviating fears of domestic unrest due to dwindling supplies. However, the US recently revoked the sanctions waiver granted after the ceasefire, warning that the Navy may reinstate the blockade and target Iranian vessels if attacks persist. Analysts warn Iran risks escalating tensions further by pushing too hard.