Hormuz sees fresh activity: Three oil supertankers appear to make move through strait as US–Iran talks begin

Three oil supertankers appear to be navigating through the Strait of Hormuz, indicating a potential revival in shipping activity after weeks of disruption caused by tensions between the United States and Iran. According to Bloomberg, two Chinese vessels carrying crude oil and a Greek tanker have either entered or are preparing to pass through the crucial maritime route.

Strait of Hormuz Reopening Key for Global Oil Supply

If all three vessels complete their transit, it would mark the busiest day for oil shipments through the Strait since early March, when conflict-related disruptions nearly halted traffic.

The reopening of this vital passage is critical, as the Strait of Hormuz handles a significant portion of the world’s oil supply. Its closure had led to the loss of millions of barrels in global markets, impacting oil prices and supply chains.


Iran has reportedly allowed vessels to pass, though ships are required to seek prior permission before entering the waterway.

Ceasefire Boosts Oil Shipping Activity

The apparent increase in tanker movement comes just days after a fragile ceasefire was announced between Washington and Tehran. The easing of tensions appears to have encouraged shipping operators to cautiously resume operations.

The Bloomberg report noted that the Greek tanker is likely en route to Malaysia, while the Chinese vessels are carrying crude oil, indicating a gradual normalisation of global oil shipping routes.

High-Stakes US-Iran Talks Begin in Islamabad

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are underway, with delegations from the United States and Iran in Islamabad for crucial peace talks.

As reported by Al Jazeera, the US delegation includes Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner. The Iranian team is led by Parliamentay Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, accompanied by senior officials.

Pakistan has implemented heightened security measures in the capital, with key routes barricaded and aerial surveillance in place.

Competing Peace Plans and Nuclear Tensions

At the centre of negotiations are competing proposals from both sides. Iran has put forward a 10-point plan focusing on sanctions relief, regional security, and maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States, on the other hand, has proposed stricter conditions, including limits on uranium enrichment, increased monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency, and curbs on Iran’s missile programme.

Despite initial confusion over the terms, the White House posted on X on April 8 that US President Donald Trump said discussions would take place privately with clearly defined objectives.

Regional Tensions Continue Despite Ceasefire

Even as talks progress, tensions in the region remain high. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that Israel will continue its military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon despite supporting the ceasefire framework.

Reports of fresh airstrikes in southern Lebanon underline the fragile nature of the current truce.

Global Markets Watch Closely

With oil shipments resuming and diplomatic talks underway, global markets are closely monitoring developments. The safe passage of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz and progress in negotiations could play a crucial role in stabilising oil prices and easing geopolitical tensions.

The coming days are expected to be decisive, both for international diplomacy and the global energy landscape.

Inputs from agencies