Strait of Hormuz shipping shifts to Omani route to bypass Iran

Maritime data indicates that Iran is losing significant control over the Strait of Hormuz as commercial vessels increasingly bypass Iranian-controlled channels. According to analytics firm Kpler, more than 80% of vessel transits through the strategic waterway over the past two weeks have utilized the Omani route, a UN-authorized shipping channel that Tehran has repeatedly denounced.

The shift toward the southern route along Oman’s coast occurs amid ongoing conflict following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in early 2026. While Iran attempted to assert de facto control by establishing a Persian Gulf Strait Authority and demanding passage permits, U.S. naval forces have expanded their presence to escort and protect commercial vessels.

Despite Iranian forces attacking ships attempting to use the Omani passage, the majority of vessels are opting for the protected corridor. While total vessel traffic remains below pre-conflict averages, combined oil flows through the strait and alternative routes have recently reached approximately 15 million barrels per day.