Sanctioned Chinese Tanker Crosses Strait of Hormuz During Blockade

First Known Transit Amid Rising Tensions

A Chinese oil tanker under US sanctions has passed through the Strait of Hormuz, marking the first confirmed transit during the ongoing blockade.

The vessel, named Rich Starry, completed the crossing early Tuesday, according to maritime tracking data.

Ownership and Route Details

The tanker is owned by Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping, which appears on the US sanctions list.

Data from MarineTraffic shows that the ship circled near the strait late Monday before continuing its journey. It had earlier departed from Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates and is now heading toward China.

Suspicious Shipping Activity Detected

Meanwhile, another tanker linked to Iran also entered the strait on Monday. Reports indicate that the vessel transmitted false Automatic Identification System (AIS) data, suggesting it originated from Saudi Arabia.

This activity highlights a growing trend among vessels attempting to avoid detection.

Rising Use of Deceptive Tracking Methods

Since the conflict began, many ships have tried to hide their movements in the region. Some vessels broadcast incorrect AIS data, while others completely disable their tracking systems.

As a result, monitoring maritime traffic in the area has become increasingly difficult.
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