InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – Diplomatic efforts are seen as the fastest way to restore shipping flows through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions continue to overshadow one of the world’s most critical energy trade routes.

The narrow strait along Iran’s coastline previously handled around 20% of global crude oil and LNG trade. However, since military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28, shipping activity in the area has dropped sharply.

Currently, maritime traffic is dominated by Iran’s “shadow fleet” vessels, along with a limited number of ships from non-aligned countries.

Iran has expressed willingness to grant safe passage to countries not allied with the United States and Israel, opening access for nations such as India, China, and Pakistan.

“The strait is only closed to tankers and ships belonging to Iran’s enemies and their allies. Others are free to pass,” said Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as reported by Reuters and cited by InfoSAWIT, Friday (27/3/2026).

Two Indian-flagged LPG tankers reportedly transited the strait on March 13, along with three large vessels carrying Iranian LPG to China. Tankers bound for Pakistan also continued to pass without disruption.

BIMCO’s Head of Maritime Security Jakob Larson noted that diplomacy remains the most effective approach. “Reducing Iran’s motivation to attack can be more easily achieved, at least for certain merchant vessels, through diplomatic channels,” he said.

Military options, meanwhile, are considered high-risk. Analysts warn that securing the strait amid threats of missiles, drones, and mines would be complex and resource-intensive.

With shipping conditions still fragile, stability in the Strait of Hormuz is seen as highly dependent on successful diplomatic engagement, as even minor disruptions could significantly impact global energy trade. (T2)