IMO Pauses Hormuz Escort Amid Ship Attack, Heightening War Concerns

The UN International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has paused its operation to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz following a reported attack on a vessel near Oman. The cargo ship, identified as the Singapore-flagged Ever Lovely, was reportedly hit by a projectile, according to British Navy agency UKMTO. This development reignites concerns about the viability of a preliminary deal aimed at ending the Iran war.

Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority, established by Tehran to manage shipping requests through the strait, stated that vessels using unauthorized routes would not be guaranteed safe passage. The authority emphasized that any consequences arising from such actions would be solely the responsibility of the ship owner and commander.

The IMO had paused its operation in response to these events to reassess safety guarantees for ships on their evacuation list and those in the region. US President Donald Trump had previously warned that Iran’s failure to honor an agreement could lead to renewed military action.

Benchmark oil prices rose 2% following reports of the attack, with analysts expressing concerns about the time required for Gulf oil flows to return to normal levels. The incident highlights the potential extent of Iran’s future control over the Strait of Hormuz, which currently handles a fifth of global daily oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had reassured reporters that if Iran threatens or blocks ships in the strait, it would create problems. However, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have asserted their right to control passage through the strait, ordering two Panama-flagged ships to change course on Thursday.