Strait of Hormuz: A second Turkish-flagged ship has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing tensions, Turkey’s Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu confirmed on Saturday.
The crossing comes as Iran continues to restrict access to the vital waterway following the outbreak of conflict triggered by U.S. and Israeli strikes on February 28. The situation has disrupted global shipping routes and contributed to rising oil and gas prices.
Uraloglu stated that 15 vessels linked to Turkish shipowners were initially waiting to pass through the strait when hostilities began. So far, two ships have managed to transit the route under special conditions.
Limited crossings follow diplomatic coordination
According to the minister, the successful crossings resulted from diplomatic efforts and specific operational factors. He noted that the vessels were either using Iranian ports or transporting goods to or from Iran, which facilitated their passage.
The ships, identified as Rozana and Neraki, crossed the strait with Iranian approval. However, Uraloglu did not disclose the exact timing of the second transit. Earlier, the first vessel had passed through on March 13.
Several ships remain stranded awaiting clearance
Meanwhile, only nine of the remaining vessels have formally requested permission to cross. Turkish authorities continue to coordinate with relevant ministries to assist these ships.
Furthermore, four vessels have not applied for clearance. Two of them are currently stationed as power-generation ships, while the other two remain idle, awaiting improved conditions.
Overall, the limited movement highlights ongoing restrictions in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt maritime activity.
