Iran Blocks Strait of Hormuz
Analysis based on 7 articles · First reported Mar 18, 2026 · Last updated Mar 24, 2026
The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran has severely disrupted global shipping, leading to a 95% drop in traffic and forcing companies like CMA CGM to seek alternative, longer routes. This disruption significantly impacts the oil and gas markets, particularly for major importers like China, and increases logistical costs and transit times globally.
Iranian forces have blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global trade route, following US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. This action has led to a 95% decrease in commodity carrier crossings, with only a trickle of ships, mostly Iranian, making it through. Approximately a third of transiting ships are under US, EU, or UK sanctions. Most of the oil passing through the strait is Iranian and destined for China, though volumes are significantly below pre-war levels. Several nations, including China, India, Pakistan, Iraq, and Malaysia, are in direct talks with Iran's Revolutionary Guards to coordinate vessel transits. Shipping companies are adapting by using alternative routes, leading to surges in traffic through the Bab-el-Mandeb strait and the Egypt===Suez Canal.
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