A French-owned container ship, the CMA CGM Kribi, has become the first Western European vessel to transit the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran conflict began.
The Maltese-flagged vessel, operated by the world’s third-largest container line, departed Dubai waters on Thursday and entered the strait under Iranian supervision. It is scheduled to reach Pointe Noire, Republic of Congo.
Its passage marks a potential shift in regional shipping behavior following earlier successful Chinese-linked transits. The move may encourage other carriers to resume operations if the corridor remains stable.
Meanwhile, Iran is negotiating with Oman to formalize traffic protocols through the strait. Reports indicate the IRGC may impose tolls starting at $1 per barrel and accept payments in yuan or stablecoins.
In a separate development, an LNG tanker attempted its first transit since the conflict, signaling renewed activity among energy carriers.
This strategic maritime route remains under close scrutiny due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.