Maritime traffic in Strait of Hormuz remains crippled six months into military standoff

Six months after Iran restricted transit through the Strait of Hormuz following US and Israeli strikes, daily vessel crossings remain down from 95 to approximately 15. Tehran reiterated that the strategic waterway "will not be opened" until Washington lifts port blockades, suspends petroleum sanctions, unfreezes Iranian assets, and halts military operations.

Military confrontations have escalated in parallel. Following US night-time escorts for oil tankers, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched sea mines, prompting a US military strike against installations on Larak Island. However, diplomatic channels remain partially open; Iranian officials announced a preliminary agreement with Oman to establish a safe maritime navigation route following three weeks of talks.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, Jornal Económico, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal).