A massive oil tanker carrying Iraqi crude successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, May 11, 2026, as it continued its journey toward Vietnam. According to reports from Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, the tanker used a special maritime route approved by Iranian authorities amid ongoing regional tensions.
Shipping data cited by Reuters showed that two other supertankers, “Agios Fanourios 1” and “Chiara M.,” also crossed the strait on Sunday. Reports said the vessels temporarily turned off their tracking systems to reduce the risk of possible attacks while transporting Middle Eastern oil during the current conflict. Each tanker was reportedly carrying around two million barrels of Iraqi crude oil.
At the same time, concerns remain high over the growing tensions between Iran and the United States in the region. According to reports citing US intelligence assessments, Iran is believed to have enough economic resilience to withstand maritime pressure and sanctions for several more months without facing severe economic collapse.
Although there was a temporary ceasefire last month, fighting and military tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have intensified again in recent days. Recent exchanges between US and Iranian forces, along with reported attacks involving the UAE, have increased fears about the safety of one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.
As Iraq continues exporting oil through the region, global energy markets remain highly alert to any new developments that could disrupt supplies and push oil prices even higher.
