Record 20+ Vessels Transit Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, Highest Daily Total Since Conflict Began

WASHINGTON — More than 20 commercial vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, April 18, 2026, marking the highest single-day transit volume since the U.S.-Iran conflict escalated in late February, according to shipping analytics firm Kpler.

The surge occurred shortly after Iran briefly declared the strategic waterway open for commercial traffic during the 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire. Data showed at least 20 vessels, including tankers carrying oil products and LPG, successfully transited amid the temporary easing. Five of the ships carried Iranian cargoes of metals and oil products, with some bound for China and India.

This volume far exceeded the severely reduced traffic seen in prior weeks. Pre-conflict averages exceeded 100 vessels per day, while recent daily counts often fell to single digits or low teens due to Iranian restrictions and the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports.

The increased activity came as shipping companies tested the route following Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s announcement that commercial passage would be allowed. However, Iran quickly reimposed strict controls later Saturday, citing the ongoing U.S. blockade, and reports emerged of IRGC gunboats firing warning shots at some vessels.

The Strait of Hormuz carries about 20% of global seaborne oil trade and remains critical for energy markets.