The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, is seeing a gradual return of commercial traffic following a landmark agreement between the United States and Iran. According to Marine Traffic data, only 34 crossings were recorded recently, a figure well below the pre-conflict average of roughly 100 vessels per day.
Tehran had effectively closed the strait during the recent conflict. Its reopening represents a key component of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on June 17, 2026, which mandates that commercial traffic through the waterway must “immediately start.” The accord is part of ongoing negotiations aimed at broader peace in the region.
Despite the uptick in crossings, security remains a serious concern. The Joint Maritime Information Center has raised the maritime security threat level for the Strait of Hormuz to SUBSTANTIAL, citing persistent mine risks and ongoing clearance operations. Ships currently navigate the strait via two main routes: a southern corridor that passes through Omani waters and a northern route under Iranian control.
Under the MOU, the United States is required to fully lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports by July 19. In return, Iran is expected to use its “best efforts” to restore traffic to pre-war levels within the same timeframe. Since the US-imposed blockade was officially lifted two weeks ago, Iran has exported an estimated 50 million barrels of crude oil, according to TankerTrackers. Meanwhile, other Gulf states continue to struggle with moving their own exports.
Before the war, roughly 20% of the world’s oil production flowed through the Strait of Hormuz. One significant detail left unaddressed in the agreement is the future governance of the waterway. Ships will be allowed to transit toll-free for a period of only 60 days, during which Iran and its Gulf neighbors must negotiate a new long-term arrangement—one that could potentially allow Iran to impose transit fees.
