finance
Multiple Oil Tankers Transit Strait of Hormuz Using New Iranian Shipping Lanes
Several crude oil tankers, including three supertankers and a Pakistani-flagged vessel, have transited the Strait of Hormuz on April 12, 2026. The movements occurred via newly marked Iranian shipping lanes. One additional very large crude carrier is midway through the crossing toward Iraq.
Apr 12, 7:09 AM·1m read2 sources
SEJA
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Another very large crude carrier (VLCC) is currently transiting the strait into the Persian Gulf, approximately halfway through the passage. The VLCC is traveling in ballast and is headed to Iraq to load cargo destined for Vietnam.
A Pakistani-flagged crude oil tanker named Khairpur is also making the transit into the Persian Gulf. This follows two previous attempts by the vessel to cross the strait. All reported transits are occurring via new Iranian-marked shipping lanes.
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and handles about 20% of the world's oil trade. These movements come amid regional tensions, though no specific incidents were reported during these transits.
The three supertankers completed their exit from the strait earlier in the day.
The ongoing VLCC transit marks the fourth vessel involved in these operations on this date. Sources indicate the use of designated lanes to facilitate safe passage. The Khairpur's current attempt follows unsuccessful prior efforts, highlighting potential challenges in the waterway.
No details on the reasons for previous failures were provided in reports.
has established marked shipping lanes in the strait to guide vessels.
These lanes are being utilized by the tankers in both directions—entering and exiting the Persian Gulf. The developments underscore ongoing efforts to manage maritime traffic in the area.
