Strait of Hormuz faces uncertainty amid escalating Iran-Israel tensions

Kathmandu. The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have created persistent uncertainty in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical maritime trade routes. The global market remains anxious over whether the Iranian government will continue to permit the passage of vessels through this waterway. 

According to a recent BBC Verify report, vessel traffic in the region has dropped significantly. Data from 'Marine Traffic,' which tracks ship movements, indicates that only nine vessels have traversed the route since the ceasefire announcement on Tuesday night, including two oil and chemical tankers. Prior to the conflict, an average of 138 large vessels passed through this route daily. 

Due to ongoing warfare and insecurity, approximately 800 ships are currently stranded at sea. Richard Meade, editor of the maritime news portal Lloyd's List, stated that the conflict has brought the waterway to a near-standstill. 

As a vital artery for global oil supply, the disruption of this route is having a profound impact on international trade and fuel prices.