Iran Seizes Two Ships as Strait of Hormuz Traffic Plummets

Vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped sharply after Iran seized two ships, intensifying security risks at the world's most critical energy chokepoint. The strait handles about 25% of global seaborne oil and 20% of LNG transport.

Following the US-Israeli air campaign against Iran, Tehran has deployed sea mines and boarded vessels, effectively blocking the strait. The latest seizures signal Iran is maintaining pressure despite a US naval blockade on Iranian ports.

Prediction markets now place a 74.5% probability that fewer than 20 ships will transit the strait on any day by May 31, up from 58% a day earlier. The shift reflects growing conviction that Iran’s enforcement will continue to restrict movement through this strategic waterway.