Iran has continued exporting crude oil through the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz despite a US‑imposed naval blockade, raising questions about the effectiveness of Washington’s strategy. Data from maritime analytics firm Vortexa shows that between April 13 and 21, Iran moved approximately 10.7 million barrels of crude out of the region even as US forces attempted to restrict tanker movements.
The shipments were carried on six tankers that had switched off their tracking systems, a tactic increasingly used by Iran‑linked vessels to evade surveillance. In total, 35 Iran‑linked or sanctioned ships crossed the blockade zone during the first 10 days, including 19 outbound journeys, several of which were fully or partially loaded with crude.
The continued exports come at a time of heightened US-Iran tensions. After peace talks in Islamabad collapsed, President Donald Trump ordered a blockade of Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to halt Tehran’s oil revenue. But the latest data suggests Iran’s shipping network remains active, with tankers navigating through or around US‑patrolled waters.
The US has warned that any country found purchasing Iranian oil during the blockade could face sanctions, further escalating diplomatic pressure. Meanwhile, analysts say the mismatch between Washington’s objectives and the on‑the‑water reality is fuelling international concern about the blockade’s long‑term impact on global energy markets.
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