A Pakistan-flagged oil tanker has made headlines by becoming the first vessel to exit the Strait of Hormuz amid a US-imposed naval blockade. The tanker, named Shalamar, entered the Persian Gulf over the past weekend and successfully sailed through a heavily monitored area, highlighting a significant decline in maritime traffic through this vital energy passage. As reported, Shalamar passed Iran’s Larak Island and entered the Gulf of Oman late Thursday, carrying approximately 450,000 barrels of crude oil sourced from Das Island in the United Arab Emirates.

Impact of the US Naval Blockade

The movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supply, has reportedly declined sharply since military actions involving the US and Israel against Iran began on 28 February. Under the newly established US blockade, vessels transiting this route must obtain necessary clearances from both Washington and Tehran, which has significantly curtailed shipping activities. Despite a few supertankers managing to navigate through last week, such crossings have become increasingly uncommon, making Shalamar’s recent passage notable.

Prior to this escalation, Iran had maintained a steady export rate of around 1.7 million barrels per day during March. However, amidst rising tensions and ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington, this flow has nearly come to a halt. The situation remains critical, as the ongoing conflict surpassed its seventh week, with both nations hinting at the possibility of renewed discussions to ease hostilities.

Shalamar’s journey has been particularly eventful. Initially aiming to enter the Persian Gulf on 12 April, the vessel altered its course following the collapse of US-Iran discussions held in Islamabad. After navigating to Das Island, Shalamar returned to exit the Gulf in response to the blockade announced earlier this week.

Challenges and Responses in the Blockade Zone

Notably, despite the stringent blockade announced by former President Trump to completely restrict access to Iranian ports, a small number of vessels have reportedly crossed through the Strait of Hormuz, defying US directives. On the first day of the blockade, at least five ships linked to Iran—comprising four tankers and a bulk carrier—managed to transit, spotlighting the ongoing tensions and the complex nature of maritime activities in the area. Among these were three tankers previously subjected to US sanctions for engaging in trade with Iran.

The blockade zone encompasses a significant expanse, ranging from Ras al Hadd in Oman to the maritime boundary between Iran and Pakistan, as delineated by the US military. Although a limited number of vessels continue to attempt crossings, overall traffic remains considerably below typical levels. Shalamar, operated by the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation, has not released any public statements regarding this particular voyage.

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