Tension has taken a surprising turn in the Strait of Hormuz, where secret signals are reportedly being used to bypass Iran’s blockade.
In a development, only a limited number of vessels have managed to pass through the restricted waters. However, those that succeeded appear to share one key advantage hidden communication signals.
According to recent findings, ships linked to Iran’s oil trade or approved partners were allowed safe passage. Moreover, these vessels were identified through coded signals broadcast during transit.
A maritime intelligence firm revealed that these signals are being used across multiple ships.
“Whether they are signals to Tehran or internal fleet identifiers, we cannot confirm, but the signals are coordinated across multiple vessels,” Arsenio Longo stated.
Meanwhile, vessels connected to India and China appear to be benefiting from this arrangement. In addition, some ships displayed messages like “GOVT OF INDIA SHIP” and “INDIAN SHIP&INDCREW.”
This indicates that diplomatic efforts may have played a role in securing limited access. However, most global shipping traffic remains blocked.
The situation has significantly reduced movement through the strait. Before the crisis, about 130 ships crossed daily. Now, only around 90 vessels have been recorded passing through.
Furthermore, the blockade has left nearly 2,000 ships stranded in the Persian Gulf. As a result, about 20,000 seafarers are currently affected.
The International Maritime Organization has urged urgent action. Therefore, efforts are being discussed to safely evacuate trapped ships.
At the same time, risks remain high for unauthorized vessels. Reports indicate that ships attempting to cross without approval have been attacked.
Despite the restrictions, Iran’s oil exports continue. In fact, millions of barrels have still been shipped, mainly to China.
“It’s business as usual,” a senior adviser noted, highlighting how trade flows have not completely stopped.
Additionally, several Iran-linked tankers have reached key global routes like the Singapore Strait. Meanwhile, others have returned to reload and continue operations.
