INTERTANKO Urges Coordinated Approach as Strait of Hormuz Reopening Emerges

18 April 2026

INTERTANKO Urges Coordinated Approach as Strait of Hormuz Reopening Emerges

17 April 2026
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Reports that the Strait of Hormuz may be reopening will come as a welcome, if cautious, relief to INTERTANKO’s Members and the thousands of seafarers who have remained exposed to a complex and highly uncertain operating environment in the Gulf. 

Speaking about the Strait opening, INTERTANKO Marine Director Phillip Belcher said, “Before any transits resume, it is essential that the industry is provided with clear and verified information relating to these reports from Iran, along with clarity relating to measures introduced by the United States.

"This is particularly important in terms of navigational safety for the alternative routes, reported mines within the traffic separation scheme (TSS) and the area in general, and any interactions with the IRGC in relation to sanctions.”

INTERTANKO Managing Director Tim Wilkins added, “While the prospect of reopening is encouraging, it is essential that any resumption of transits is underpinned by clear, consistent and coordinated navigational guidance. The safe movement of ships and the welfare of seafarers must remain paramount, with any transit decisions fully reflecting the human element, including workload, fatigue and pressure on seafarers trapped within the Gulf.”

As the situation evolves, INTERTANKO is actively working with Members and industry partners to support a safe and orderly transition towards resumed operations. Safe Transit Guidance for the Strait of Hormuz is being developed by INTERTANKO, for use by the wider industry to assist Masters and operators in planning transits once immediate threats have receded – this guidance will be essential if transits resume in the coming days. INTERTANKO’s Members are on the frontline of this crisis.

A total of 102 tankers, operated by 41 Member companies, remain in the Persian Gulf, with approximately 2,448 seafarers exposed to a complex, highly uncertain environment.

Contact: Jon Chaplin

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