Conflicting signals from Washington and Tehran over the next phase of US-Iran negotiations have cast fresh uncertainty over efforts to consolidate a fragile ceasefire, even as commercial shipping continues to move cautiously through Strait of Hormuz.
The UN International Maritime Organization (IMO) has temporarily suspended its operation to escort and evacuate ships through the Strait of Hormuz after a cargo vessel came under attack, raising fresh concerns over maritime security despite a preliminary agreement aimed at ending the Iran conflict.
Global maritime charity Sailors' Society has signed a deal with top insurer NorthStandard to roll out its innovative Sea Mate training to the P&I club's members, thus paving the way for a sea change in seafarer care with an increase in the number of Wellbeing Officers on board ships.
The United States has lifted its naval blockade of Iran and commercial shipping has begun cautiously returning to the Strait of Hormuz after Washington and Tehran signed an interim agreement aimed at ending months of conflict in the Gulf.
Three supertankers carrying 6 million barrels of Middle East crude resumed crossing the strategic Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, signalling tentative hopes for stability in global oil flows as US President Donald Trump indicated he was prepared to give Iran a few more days to respond to Washington’s latest proposal aimed at ending the conflict.
Eni and MSC Cruises have announced the completion of a test of the use of Enilive’s HVO (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil) diesel. This test confirmed the technical feasibility of using the biofuel in its pure form in the maritime sector to power cruise ship engines.
Oil prices extended gains on Thursday after big increases in the previous session amid reports of action against ships by both Iran and the US and stalled peace talks.
Oil prices jumped on Wednesday (April 22) with Brent trading above $100 a barrel, erasing earlier losses following reports of gunfire attacks on at least three container ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
Tensions have escalated again in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran said it was tightening control over it warning mariners that the energy lifeline was again closed, as shipping sources said at least two vessels came under fire while trying to transit the waterway. It said this was in response to a continued US blockade of Iranian ports.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) forces will begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports today (April 13) at 10 am ET (3 pm GMT and 7pm GST), following President Donald Trump's announcement on Sunday on the action.
