Chinese-linked tanker crosses Strait of Hormuz despite US blockade

Moscow (ANTARA) - A tanker linked to China, which is under American sanctions, was reported to have crossed the Strait of Hormuz towards the Gulf of Oman despite a blockade from Washington, according to a Bloomberg report on Tuesday.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) initiated the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday evening, as an implementation of an order from US President Donald Trump following the failure of negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

According to the report, the vessel successfully passed through the strait on its second attempt. The first attempt was halted when the US blockade came into effect on Monday, forcing the ship to turn back. However, a few hours later, the tanker attempted the crossing again.

The Rich Starry tanker, previously named Full Star, was reportedly sanctioned by the US in 2023 for helping Iran evade energy restrictions.

Another tanker, Elpis, was also reported to be heading towards the Gulf of Oman during the ongoing blockade. Last year, the US imposed sanctions on the vessel under its previous name, Chamtang, due to its connections with Iranian oil trade.

On 28 February, the United States and Israel launched attacks on targets in Iran, including in Tehran, causing damage and civilian casualties. Iran then retaliated by striking Israeli territory and US military facilities in the Middle East.

This escalation involving Iran has led to a de facto blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for shipping oil and liquefied natural gas from Persian Gulf countries to global markets. The situation has also impacted oil export levels and production in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz has not been reopened despite a two-week ceasefire announced by Trump last week.