Hormuz Traffic Surges 400% as Iran’s Grip Weakens

Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has surged about 400% in two weeks, with roughly 200 ships passing last week and total activity at about 20% of pre-war levels, as Iran appears to have loosened tighter control of the waterway and more vessels choose the Oman corridor or go dark. Analysts note the shift accompanies ongoing tensions, with about half the cargoes being oil tankers and five ships reportedly struck by Iranian projectiles; the United States has been quietly escorting tankers through Hormuz, and talks to end the war have stalled as a 60-day window closes.