A vessel owned by the French firm CMA CGM just performed the maritime equivalent of a tightrope walk by sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. This is a big deal because the US and Israel are currently at war with Iran, and the waterway has been about as welcoming as a hornet’s nest. It is the first time a major Western European ship has braved the route since the shooting started over a month ago.
The ship flew a Maltese flag, which is a classic move for hiding who you actually are at a party. It hugged the coast of Oman as tightly as possible to stay away from the Iranian side. A Japanese ship carrying natural gas also managed to sneak out around the same time. The owners confirmed the crew is safe, which is a nice way of saying nobody got blown up this time.
Donald Trump and the Great Oil Gusher
While these sailors are risking their lives to deliver your next Amazon parcel, Donald Trump has been sharing his business plans on Truth Social. He is apparently frustrated that his allies are not helping him kick the door open. Also, he claimed the US could easily open the strait and make a fortune from the oil.
The stakes are actually quite high for everyone else. About a fifth of the world’s oil and gas usually flows through this tiny gap. Since the conflict began in February, about 200 ships have been sitting around in the water with nowhere to go. This massive traffic jam has sent global oil prices into orbit, making your local petrol station look like a high end boutique.
Sneaking Through the Back Door
Even though the waterway is technically closed for business, a few brave souls are still having a go. About five or six ships a day are making the journey, which is a 95 percent drop from the good old days. Most of these vessels are linked to Iran, India, or Pakistan. It seems that if you have enough nerve, or just a very urgent delivery, you can still find a way through.
The French company has declined to comment on why they decided to take the risk. Perhaps they were bored of the long way around, or maybe they just really trust the Omani coastline. Either way, shipping analysts are watching every move with their hearts in their mouths.
A Risky Game of Battleships
The big question is whether this marks a return to normal or just a very lucky escape. Iran says non hostile ships can pass, but when there are missiles flying around, everyone is a bit twitchy. For now, the global economy is holding its breath and hoping more captains have the guts to play this high stakes game of battleships.
Do you think the French are being brave pioneers, or are they just one wrong turn away from a very expensive insurance claim?
Related topics: Europe
