14.04.2026 09:41
Following the U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a Chinese ship, which had strongly reacted to the decision, passed through the Strait of Hormuz despite the blockade. Another Chinese ship is approaching the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the US blockade, a Chinese tanker passed through the Strait of Hormuz and exited the Gulf.
SANCTIONED SHIP PASSED THROUGH THE STRAIT
The Chinese tanker Rich Starry, which was sanctioned by the US due to Iran-linked activities, made a passage through the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. According to maritime data, this vessel became the first tanker to pass through the strait and exit the Gulf since the blockade began.
INTERNATIONAL DATA CONFIRMED
Data from LSEG, MarineTraffic, and Kpler confirmed the passage. The owner of Rich Starry, Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Co Ltd, had been subjected to US sanctions for doing business with Iran.
CARRYING A LOAD OF 250,000 BARRELS
According to data, the medium-range tanker Rich Starry is carrying approximately 250,000 barrels of methanol. It was reported that the ship loaded its cargo at Hamriyah Port in the United Arab Emirates.
ANOTHER SANCTIONED TANKER IS ON THE WAY
Meanwhile, another tanker subject to US sanctions, Murlikishan, also moved towards the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. According to Kpler data, the empty handysize tanker is expected to load fuel in Iraq on April 16.
PREVIOUSLY CARRIED RUSSIAN AND IRANIAN OIL
It was shared that Murlikishan, previously known as MKA, had carried Russian and Iranian oil in the past.
BLOCKADE BEGAN YESTERDAY
The US blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports began yesterday at 17:00 Turkey time. In a statement from the US Central Command (CENTCOM), it was emphasized that the maritime blockade would be applied "neutrally" against ships of all countries entering or leaving all Iranian ports and coastal areas, including those in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
CHINA REACTS TO THE BLOCKADE DECISION
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun commented on US President Donald Trump's statements regarding the Strait of Hormuz at a press conference in the capital Beijing. Stating that the Strait of Hormuz plays a critical role in international trade and energy transportation, Guo noted that maintaining regional security and stability is in the common interest of the international community. Guo said, "The main reason for the blockage of strait traffic is the conflicts in Iran. To resolve the issue, the relevant parties need to stop the conflicts as soon as possible. China will continue to play a constructive role on this matter."