Strait of Hormuz: Shipping Threat Level Remains ‘Critical’ Amid Iranian Control

The International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (Intertanko) has issued a stark warning regarding the Strait of Hormuz, maintaining a “critical” threat level and advising its 190 members to avoid the waterway entirely.

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According to Phil Belcher, Marine Director at Intertanko, the vital corridor is currently under the de-facto rule of the Iranian military, leaving global shipping operators with no clear guarantees of safe passage.

Key Concerns for Global Shipping

• Imminent Risk of Attack: Intertanko warns that the threat is active and unpredictable, stating that an attack could occur at any moment.
• Lack of Oversight: The organization is advising members to bypass the Strait until a “coalition of the willing” provides military oversight and maritime security for commercial vessels.
• The “Toll” Controversy: Intertanko has firmly rejected reports that Iran may begin charging a “toll” for ships to pass through the international waterway.
• Legal Violations: Belcher expressed “amazement” that such a toll is even being considered in upcoming negotiations in Pakistan, arguing it violates the fundamental principles of international law and the right to free passage.

Current Stance

For now, the message to the shipping industry is one of extreme caution. Until attacks cease and a coordinated international security presence is established, one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints remains effectively off-limits for independent tanker operators.

“We are amazed that this [the toll] appears to be one of the starting points of negotiations… because it goes against the whole idea of international laws.” — Phil Belcher, Intertanko