Strait of Hormuz Not Closed but Shipping Severely Constrained March 1, 2026 — Rising military tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran have significantly reduced shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime trade routes. However, experts say the strait is not completely closed. Normally, about 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through this narrow waterway. Currently, more than 150 oil tankers are anchored across the Persian Gulf, waiting for the situation to stabilize. Many shipping companies have paused voyages due to sharply rising war-risk insurance premiums required for vessels entering the region. Recent reports indicate that a U.S. strike sank an Iranian naval vessel as part of ongoing military operations. Iran also claimed it launched ballistic missiles toward the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, although the attack was denied by U.S. Central Command. Meanwhile, the UK Maritime Trade Operations has warned that the maritime security environment across the region remains highly volatile. An oil tanker off the coast of Oman was recently struck by an unidentified projectile, causing a fire and injuring several crew members. Analysts warn that any prolonged disruption in the strait could threaten global energy supplies. Major Asian economies such as China, Japan, and South Korea rely heavily on oil shipments passing through this route, making the situation closely watched worldwide.