Despite heightened tensions surrounding maritime restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, at least 34 tankers with reported links to Iran have managed to pass through or around a US-imposed blockade, according to a Financial Times report. The development comes amid escalating claims and counterclaims between Washington and Tehran over control of one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.

The United States had announced a blockade on April 13, aimed at restricting maritime trade in and out of Iran, particularly targeting vessels suspected of carrying goods that could support Iran’s military activities. However, US President Donald Trump has since claimed that the United States “totally controls” the Strait of Hormuz and described the embargo as a “tremendous success,” adding that restrictions would remain until a final agreement with Iran is reached.

According to the report, out of the 34 vessels that have moved through the restricted zone, at least 19 tankers linked to Iran have exited the Gulf, while 15 vessels have reportedly entered from the Arabian Sea toward Iranian waters. Among those that departed, six tankers are believed to have been carrying Iranian crude oil, transporting an estimated 10.7 million barrels.

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Based on conservative pricing estimates—factoring in discounts on sanctioned Iranian oil—the shipments could be valued at approximately $910 million. The report also highlights instances of evasion tactics, including the use of transponders being switched off to avoid detection and ship-to-ship transfers conducted in international waters to obscure the origin of cargo.

One such vessel, identified as Dorena, reportedly left Iranian waters on April 17 before carrying out a covert transfer of oil near Malaysia. Other sanctioned vessels have also been tracked moving through the region, with monitoring agencies such as Vortexa reporting continued maritime activity despite enforcement efforts.

The situation remains highly fluid, with conflicting statements from Iran as well. Iranian authorities have asserted that transit through the Strait of Hormuz now requires permission from its naval forces, while also describing new operational controls over maritime movement in the region.

Meanwhile, reports of attempted closures, partial access, and incidents involving commercial ships have raised concerns among shipping operators, who warn of increased risks and disruptions in one of the world’s most vital energy corridors.

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