Mine clearance in the Strait of Hormuz is not sufficient on its own to bring commercial shipping back to normal, INTERTANKO warned, even as the tanker industry group welcomed the US military's clearing of mines from the internationally recognized shipping lanes.
Clearing Mines, But Not Risks
INTERTANKO said clearing the Strait's Traffic Separation Scheme removes a major hazard that has hung over shipping for months. However, that does not necessarily mean vessels can safely return to the traditional route.
'This is real progress and we welcome it,' INTERTANKO Marine Director Phillip Belcher said. 'Clearing the shipping lanes is a necessary condition for the return of normal traffic, but it is not sufficient on its own.'
Iran has not commented on the US announcement and continues to insist that vessels only use the northern corridor through Iranian waters. INTERTANKO said it therefore 'cannot be assumed that vessels using the TSS will be able to transit without interference.'
Difficult Choices for Shipowners
That leaves shipowners with a difficult choice even after months of US mine-clearing operations. The Joint Maritime Information Center has continued to warn about the possibility of drifting or uncharted mines in and around the TSS, while mine surveying and clearance operations continue elsewhere in the Strait.
Mines are also only part of the threat. INTERTANKO said Iran has continued attacking shipping along the southern route off Oman, while additional attacks against vessels using the route have been intercepted by US forces.
Typically, war-risk premiums and reroutings tend to increase when shipping lanes are threatened, as owners and charterers seek to mitigate potential risks to their vessels and crews.
As Editor in Chief of The Maritime, I lead content development, interviews, and digital storytelling across our multimedia maritime platform. With over 10 years of experience in the maritime industry, I create and publish in-depth stories and video features that highlight key players, emerging trends, and operational realities across global shipping. Before launching The Maritime, I worked as a Vessel Operator at Imza Marine A.S., gaining hands-on commercial shipping and voyage operations experience. I also served as Marketing Communications Specialist at Gimas Ship Supply & Services, where I managed corporate communication, digital strategy, and industry outreach for shipowners and maritime clients. I hold a Master’s degree in Maritime Transportation Management from Istanbul Technical University and a Master’s degree in Publishing from Marmara University. My work is driven by the belief that the maritime world deserves strong, informed, and accessible media representation. I am committed to sharing the stories of maritime professionals and contributing to the sector’s visibility, knowledge exchange, and future development.
