INTERTANKO welcomes mine clearance of Hormuz shipping lanes

28 August 2026

INTERTANKO welcomes confirmation from US Central Command that the internationally recognised shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz have been cleared of sea mines. This is a significant step towards restoring safe passage through the Strait, and the personnel who carried out this demanding and hazardous work deserve the industry's thanks. 

Clearing the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) removes a major hazard that has weighed on tanker operations for many months. It does not, however, mean the Strait is free of risk.  

Iran has not commented on the announcement. Its stated position is that the only acceptable transit route is the northern corridor through Iranian waters. It cannot be assumed that vessels using the TSS will be able to transit without interference.  

Once the broader security situation has sufficiently stabilised and vessels can again transit this more northern area of the Strait of Hormuz, the internationally recognised Traffic Separation Scheme should resume its role as the established route used by commercial shipping through this strategically important strait of international navigation. Adherence to the designated scheme will be essential to maintaining seafarer safety, orderly and predictable vessel movements, while supporting the uninterrupted flow of global maritime trade. 

Phillip Belcher, Marine Director of INTERTANKO, said: "This is real progress and we welcome it. Clearing the shipping lanes is a necessary condition for the return of normal traffic, but it is not sufficient on its own. Our Members will continue to make their own voyage decisions on the basis of guidance and their own risk assessments, and above all the safety of their crews." 
 
INTERTANKO will continue to monitor developments closely and to support its Members and the seafarers serving on their vessels as conditions in the Strait evolve. 

Contact: Phil Belcher

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