Iranian vessels have successfully evaded Donald Trump’s military blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, slipping past US surveillance. Reports indicate that approximately 34 Iranian oil tankers managed to circumvent the blockade, with 19 leaving the Persian Gulf and 15 entering from the Arabian Sea. The Financial Times revealed that six of these tankers were transporting Iranian crude oil, carrying around 10.7 million barrels valued at $910 million.
Following Trump’s orders, the US navy established a blockade in the global passageway, which handles 20% of the world’s oil supply and also includes Iranian ports. A military operation named ‘Operation Epic Fury’ against Tehran was launched by US-Israeli forces on February 28. Despite a temporary ceasefire agreement between Iran and the US, tensions remain high in the region.
The conflict revolves around the strategic significance of the strait, where recent incidents include the US intercepting an Iranian-flagged cargo ship. In response, Iran retaliated by seizing two cargo ships and attacking another vessel. Trump claimed that the US navy disabled and captured an Iranian ship, leading to further Iranian retaliation.
The attacks on container ships caused oil prices to surge, with Brent crude futures reaching $99.21 per barrel. Peace talks stalled in Islamabad, prompting Trump to extend the ceasefire with Iran indefinitely at the request of Pakistan, the mediator of the negotiations. Trump announced this extension on Truth Social, stating that the military blockade will continue until Iran presents a unified proposal.
Despite Trump’s offer, Iran reportedly rejected the ceasefire extension. Vice President JD Vance canceled plans for a second negotiation round in Islamabad due to Tehran’s lack of response. However, Air Force Two remains prepared to transport the VP for talks if both sides agree to reconvene.
