Despite the US claim of total control over the Strait of Hormuz and a successful blockade designed to halt Iranian maritime trade, at least 34 tankers linked to Iran have transited past the measures. While US forces have directed 28 vessels to turn back, some Iranian-flagged tankers have circumvented the blockade, with at least six confirmed to be transporting crude oil. These evasive maneuvers include turning off transponders and engaging in ship-to-ship transfers to mask the oil’s origin, while Iran has declared its own “new order” requiring permission for transits.
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During the initial 24 hours of the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports, American warships successfully compelled six vessels to alter course. Five of these ships were identified as carrying oil, with two turning back within the first two hours of the blockade’s commencement. The U.S. military is utilizing extensive air and naval assets to enforce this measure, stopping ships in the Gulf of Oman after they transit the Strait of Hormuz. While no shots were fired, the U.S. retains the authority to use force if vessels refuse to comply.
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The notion that US-sanctioned tankers are navigating the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway, despite an asserted US blockade, presents a rather complex and, frankly, amusing paradox. It seems that the reality on the ground, as indicated by available data, doesn’t quite align with the pronouncements of a complete and effective blockade. The key point here appears to be the nuanced definition of this “blockade.” It’s not, as some might have initially interpreted, a blanket closure of the entire strait to all maritime traffic. Rather, the restrictions seem to be specifically targeted at vessels either leaving or arriving at Iranian ports.… Continue reading
As Cuba faces an escalating energy crisis, intensified by a U.S. oil blockade, two Russian tankers carrying vital oil and gas shipments have been dispatched to the island. These vessels represent the Caribbean nation’s first energy deliveries in three months, aiming to alleviate widespread blackouts and disruptions to essential services. The Sea Horse, carrying approximately 27,000 tons of gas, is expected to arrive shortly, followed by the Anatoly Kolodkin, loaded with over 700,000 barrels of oil, in early April.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood