A Chinese oil tanker sanctioned by the United States has managed to navigate the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, bypassing an active US blockade, maritime tracking data revealed on Tuesday.
Shipping analytics from LSEG, MarineTraffic, and Kpler confirm that the vessel, named Rich Starry, is the first tanker to traverse this narrow passage and exit the Gulf since the blockade was enforced. This event suggests possible weaknesses in the enforcement of restrictions along one of the globe’s most vital energy corridors.
The tanker is owned by Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Co Ltd, a company previously targeted by Washington for its involvement in trade with Iran. Attempts to obtain comments from the company were unsuccessful.
Tracking data indicates that the medium-range tanker was transporting roughly 250,000 barrels of methanol. The cargo was loaded at Hamriyah port in the United Arab Emirates before the vessel’s journey through the Gulf.
Operated by a Chinese crew and under Chinese ownership, the vessel completed its passage amid rising regional tensions and intensified monitoring of maritime traffic associated with sanctioned entities.
