Gulf shipping traffic steady amid uncertainty of peace talks, eight ships transit Strait of Hormuz

Shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab remained largely consistent on Tuesday, despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding US-Iran peace talks. Eight vessels, including five tankers and three bulk carriers, transited the Strait of Hormuz, matching the previous day's activity. This is significantly lower than the typical 130-140 ships that transited before the US-Israeli war with Iran began on February 28 and Iran closed the strait. Additionally, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co-controlled LNG tanker Mubaraz reappeared outside the Strait of Hormuz, carrying a cargo from Das Island, marking its third such exit since the conflict began. In the Bab al-Mandab, 20 vessels crossed the strait, consistent with the previous day. Qatar reported progress in mediation efforts to end the US-Iran war, though Tehran denied President Trump's claim that talks were underway.