TEHRAN: A US-sanctioned Chinese tanker reversed course and returned to the Strait of Hormuz after attempting to exit the Gulf, underscoring rising tensions and disruptions in global shipping following Washington’s blockade on vessels linked to Iranian ports.
The tanker “Rich Starry”, owned by Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Co, turned back on Wednesday after failing to pass through the US naval blockade, according to shipping data. The move comes just days after US President Donald Trump announced the blockade following unsuccessful peace talks between Washington and Tehran held in Islamabad.
US Central Command stated that no vessels successfully crossed the blockade within the first 24 hours. At least six ships were instructed to turn back toward Iranian ports, signaling strict enforcement by US naval forces in the region. The “Rich Starry”, carrying approximately 250,000 barrels of methanol, had initially loaded cargo from the UAE and is now anchored near Iranian waters. The vessel and its operator are under US sanctions for alleged involvement in trade with Iran.
The blockade has sharply reduced maritime traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, with crossings dropping significantly from over 130 vessels per day prior to the outbreak of the US-Israel conflict with Iran in late February.
Meanwhile, another sanctioned tanker, “Alicia”, entered the Gulf and is reportedly heading to Iraq to load crude oil. A separate Malta-flagged vessel, “Agios Fanourios I”, also re-entered the Gulf after an earlier failed attempt and is expected to transport Iraqi crude to Vietnam.
Energy analysts warn that Iran may temporarily sustain oil production by relying on its estimated 90 million barrels of onshore storage. However, prolonged export restrictions could force production cuts, further tightening global energy markets.
The escalating situation continues to create uncertainty for shipping companies, insurers, and oil markets, as geopolitical tensions reshape trade routes in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
