The UN International Maritime Organization (IMO) has halted its efforts to guide ships and seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz following a suspected attack on a cargo vessel near Oman. The incident occurred after Tehran issued warnings against unauthorized ship routes. Reports indicate that the ship, identified as the Singapore-flagged Ever Lovely, was struck by a projectile, possibly from a drone.
Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority has stated that vessels not adhering to approved routes will not be guaranteed safe passage, holding the ship owner, operator, and commander responsible for any consequences. The US government has yet to comment on the incident. Previously, US President Donald Trump warned of potential military action if Iran failed to comply with agreements aimed at resolving the conflict and reopening the strait.
The IMO’s evacuation program, aimed at rescuing ships and seafarers stranded in the strait since February, has been temporarily suspended to ensure the safety of ships on the evacuation list and in the region. The program offers two voluntary evacuation routes through Iranian and Omani waters under US oversight.
Benchmark oil prices surged following the reported attack, raising concerns about the resumption of normal oil flows in the Gulf. The incident has refocused attention on Iran’s control over the vital Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and natural gas supplies. The US has warned of consequences if Iran interferes with maritime traffic in the area, while Iran maintains its authority over the strait’s routes.
Recent developments have underscored the ongoing tensions surrounding the interim pact between Iran and the US, with disagreements persisting over various aspects of the deal, including financial incentives, nuclear inspections, and control of strategic waterways. The agreement paves the way for further negotiations to address complex issues such as Iran’s nuclear program.