Supertankers are once again navigating the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most critical oil transit route, after days of disruption caused by the recent Iran conflict.

Their return marks a significant development for global energy markets, as shipping data shows a sharp increase in commodity vessel traffic, including crude oil tankers and liquefied natural gas carriers.

Bloomberg, citing Kpler shipping data, reported that around 24 commodity vessels passed through the strait in both directions on Monday. This included oil tankers, LNG carriers and bulk ships. The recovery extended into Tuesday, when a supertanker reappeared inside the Persian Gulf alongside several smaller vessels, signalling a gradual normalisation of traffic after the sharp slowdown triggered by attacks on commercial shipping.

The oil tankers making the transit have a combined carrying capacity of roughly 11 million barrels of crude. This underscores the importance of the rebound for global energy markets, which rely heavily on uninterrupted flows through Hormuz. The disruption began after an attack on a container ship last Thursday heightened security concerns, prompting a slowdown in tanker movements.

The improvement comes after the United States carried out fresh strikes on Iran in response to the ship attacks. Both countries subsequently agreed to halt hostilities ahead of peace talks scheduled for this week. Traders, shipowners and oil markets are closely monitoring the situation, as uninterrupted access through Hormuz is vital for crude exports from Gulf producers.

Among the vessels entering the Persian Gulf on Monday were three empty very large crude carriers operated by South Korea’s Sinokor. These ships openly transmitted their positions while sailing along Oman’s coast before entering the Gulf.

A fourth tanker operated by Sinokor, which shipping database Equasis notes officially joined the company’s fleet in April, also began broadcasting its position from inside the Gulf, indicating it is likely headed towards Iraq’s Basrah oil export terminal.

Greek-operated tankers have also resumed voyages, adding to the sense of renewed confidence among shipowners. Analysts note that the return of large carriers is a crucial step in stabilising global energy flows, particularly given the strait’s role in handling nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and LNG exports.

The rebound in traffic is being interpreted as a sign of easing tensions and growing confidence in the safety of the route. However, maritime intelligence firms caution that risks remain, with the potential for renewed hostilities or further attacks still present. The upcoming peace talks will be critical in determining whether this recovery can be sustained and expanded to pre-conflict levels.

The developments highlight the fragility of global energy supply chains and the strategic importance of Hormuz. While the return of supertankers is a positive signal, the situation remains fluid, and the world’s energy markets continue to watch closely for signs of lasting stability.

Agencies