Singapore | the-news24.com: Several oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers have exited the Strait of Hormuz with their tracking systems switched off, highlighting growing security concerns and ongoing disruption to global energy shipping routes.
Shipping data showed that at least three major tankers carrying crude oil and LNG cargoes passed through the strategic waterway while operating without active transponder signals.
Tankers Headed Toward India and China
According to shipping intelligence data, two crude oil tankers and one LNG carrier were among the vessels travelling through the Strait of Hormuz with transponders disabled.
The ships were reportedly carrying energy cargoes bound for India and China, two of Asia’s largest energy importers.
One of the vessels, the tanker Eagle Veracruz, was transporting approximately 2 million barrels of Saudi crude oil toward China. Another tanker, Nissos Keros, was carrying nearly 1.8 million barrels of crude oil to India.
Tracking Systems Switched Off Amid Security Risks
Maritime tracking systems, also known as AIS transponders, are normally used to identify vessel positions and improve navigation safety at sea.
However, shipping companies operating near the Strait of Hormuz have increasingly turned off tracking systems because of fears of attacks, seizures or targeting amid escalating regional tensions.
Analysts say some operators believe going “dark” may reduce the risk of vessels being identified during periods of conflict or military escalation.
Hormuz Shipping Traffic Still Severely Reduced
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, handling around 20% of global oil and LNG shipments under normal conditions.
Before the current regional conflict began earlier this year, around 125 to 140 vessels passed through the strait daily. Recent shipping activity, however, remains far below normal levels.
Industry estimates suggest thousands of seafarers remain stranded aboard ships waiting inside Gulf waters due to continued security uncertainty.
War and Regional Tensions Continue to Impact Energy Markets
The disruption follows months of instability linked to the conflict involving Iran, the United States and regional allies. Attacks on vessels, threats to commercial shipping and military operations around the Gulf have significantly affected maritime traffic.
Energy traders and shipping companies continue monitoring the region closely because any prolonged disruption in Hormuz could sharply impact global oil and gas prices.
LNG Tanker Reappears After Weeks Offline
One LNG vessel managed by ADNOC reportedly reappeared on tracking systems after being untraceable for several weeks. The tanker later resumed its voyage toward India.
The temporary disappearance of vessels from tracking systems has become increasingly common during the crisis as operators attempt to avoid exposure to potential threats.
Shipping Industry Warns of High Risk Environment
Maritime security organizations and shipping industry groups continue warning that the Gulf region remains a high-risk operating environment.
Military analysts say the combination of reduced shipping traffic, military activity and vessels operating without active tracking systems creates additional navigational and safety risks for commercial shipping.
Insurance costs for ships operating in the Gulf have also increased significantly because of the heightened threat level.
Global Economic Impact
Any disruption to the Strait of Hormuz has major global economic implications because the route is vital for transporting energy supplies from the Middle East to Asia and other markets.
Countries heavily dependent on imported oil and LNG, including China, India, Japan and South Korea, are particularly sensitive to instability in the region.
Energy prices have remained volatile in recent months as traders react to changing military and diplomatic developments involving Iran and the United States.
Why the Situation Matters
The growing number of vessels disabling tracking systems reflects the seriousness of security concerns surrounding one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.
Experts warn that continued instability in Hormuz could disrupt global energy supplies, increase shipping costs and intensify pressure on international energy markets.
Conclusion
Several oil and LNG tankers have now crossed the Strait of Hormuz with tracking systems turned off as regional tensions continue affecting maritime security and global energy flows.
With shipping traffic still heavily reduced and security risks remaining high, the situation in the Gulf continues to be closely watched by governments, energy markets and shipping companies worldwide.
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May 28, 2026
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