On May 20, 2026, the Naval Forces of the IRGC of Iran reported the unhindered passage of 26 civilian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz in the last 24 hours. According to information published on the Telegram channel of the Iranian command, among the ships that passed were oil tankers, container ships and other merchant vessels, the movement of which was carried out under the coordination and security of the IRGC Navy.

Iranian commanders have emphasized that all shipping operations in the strategically important waterway are conducted with their permission and coordination. This information was released in conjunction with the establishment of the new Strait of Hormuz Authority, which aims to manage and control shipping in the strait. The authority has already launched its own website to provide "real-time updates on activities in the Strait of Hormuz and recent events."

However, despite Tehran's statements about normalizing the situation, international shipping companies continue to exercise caution. Shortly before this, on May 17, the Financial Times reported that the world's largest shipping companies, including MSC, Maersk, CMA-CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd, had been forced to redirect some of their cargo transportation to land routes. Companies have started using road transport from ports on the Red Sea and the Gulf of Oman, particularly from Yanbu and King Abdullah in Saudi Arabia, as well as from Fujairah in the UAE, to avoid the risks associated with a possible blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

 The situation in the region remains tense, as evidenced by international efforts to ensure the safety of shipping. According to Bloomberg reports dated May 9, representatives from more than 40 countries have expressed their willingness to discuss their contributions to a European mission to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Participants in future discussions intend to present their capabilities in the areas of mine clearance, ship escort, and air patrol as part of a defensive maritime mission that will be activated once a stable ceasefire is achieved.

 Thus, while the Iranian Navy claims full control and unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, major players in the global shipping market continue to seek alternative and safer routes, highlighting the ongoing concerns and geopolitical tensions in one of the world's key maritime corridors.