On April 15, 2026, three Iranian oil tankers, Deep Sea, Sonia I, and Diona, successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz after departing from Iran's Kharg Island. This marks the first time loaded Iranian oil tankers have exited the Gulf since the US blockade was implemented, indicating a potential shift in the dynamics of maritime security in the region. The tankers had loaded their cargo on April 2, 8, and 9, respectively, and their successful transit challenges the effectiveness of US sanctions aimed at curbing Iranian oil exports.
INTERNATIONALPublished 14 Apr 2026 • Published 3 days ago • Updated 2h ago
Chinese Tanker Passes US Blockade in Hormuz Strait
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The recent passage of three Iranian oil tankers, Deep Sea, Sonia I, and Diona, through the Strait of Hormuz marks a significant challenge to the US blockade, as they are the first loaded Iranian vessels to exit the Gulf since the sanctions were imposed. This development raises further questions about US maritime security efforts.
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