Strait of Hormuz blockade and other major naval sieges in modern times

The U.S. Navy has implemented a sea blockade against Iran, halting economic trade in and out of the country by sea, beginning Monday, according to U.S. Central Command. The blockade, enforced in the Gulf of Oman beyond the Strait of Hormuz, applies to all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports, regardless of nationality. U.S. forces are intercepting vessels after they leave Iranian facilities and clear the Strait of Hormuz, forcing them to turn around. Shipping data indicates that Iran-linked or sanctioned vessels have altered course, stopping or turning around after leaving the Gulf. The U.S. military is using various methods beyond standard tracking beacons to identify ships originating from Iranian ports.

Donald Trump announced that the U.S. Navy would begin a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, targeting vessels that have paid tolls to Iran. According to the U.S. Central Command (Centcom), the blockade would be enforced impartially against vessels entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, starting Monday at 10:00 EDT. The U.S. Navy Commander's handbook defines a blockade as preventing vessels and aircraft from entering or exiting specified areas controlled by an enemy state. Trump stated the blockade would be effective soon and involve other countries, with NATO potentially assisting in clearing mines. The UK will not be involved in the blockade. The stated aim is to ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, which Trump accuses Iran of hindering.

Despite a newly imposed US blockade on ships calling at Iranian ports, at least three tankers transited the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. These vessels were not heading to Iran and therefore not directly affected by the blockade. One tanker, the Panama-flagged Peace Gulf, is transporting Iranian naphtha to the UAE. Two US-sanctioned tankers, Murlikishan and Rich Starry, also passed through the strait. Murlikishan is heading to Iraq to load fuel oil, while Rich Starry, sanctioned for dealing with Iran, exited the Gulf carrying methanol after loading cargo in the UAE. The US blockade was announced after failed peace talks between the US and Iran in Pakistan.

A Chinese tanker, the Rich Starry, retreated twice in 48 hours from the Strait of Hormuz, where a US naval blockade is in effect. The vessel, which is sanctioned by the US and flies the flag of Malawi, initially approached the strait on Monday after departing from the UAE, but turned back shortly before entering. On Tuesday, it entered the Gulf of Oman before making a U-turn and anchoring near Iran's Larak Island by Wednesday evening. The Rich Starry is reportedly carrying approximately 250,000 barrels of methanol acquired in the UAE. Analysts suggest that the incident reflects the risks commercial vessels face due to the blockade, with no ships receiving preferential treatment.

The US-Iran war, initiated by US strikes in late February, has significantly impacted China-US relations. A planned March meeting between Presidents Trump and Xi was postponed and rescheduled for May, but the conflict threatens to overshadow trade discussions. Initially, analysts predicted short-term benefits for China, including higher oil prices hurting the US more and distracting Washington from Asia-Pacific security concerns. However, China now faces potential long-term risks, primarily concerning energy security. Rising pump prices and potential shortages threaten Beijing's long-term planning, undermining China's energy security. The US has accused China of being an unreliable partner for stockpiling oil, while China accuses the US of dangerous behavior and threatens retaliation against tariffs.

China has criticized the United States' potential blockade of Iranian ports, deeming it "irresponsible and dangerous." This statement follows US accusations of "economic terrorism" against Iran for disrupting traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman urged all parties to adhere to ceasefire arrangements, prioritize dialogue, and restore normal traffic in the strait. The spokesman also refuted reports that China was preparing to deliver air defense systems to Iran, dismissing them as fabrications. He further stated that China would take countermeasures if the US imposed tariffs based on these accusations. The US had threatened tariffs on Chinese goods if military assistance was provided to Iran.

China is advocating for a ceasefire in the Iran war to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international trade and energy transport. This comes as US President Donald Trump announced a large naval operation targeting the oil transit chokepoint. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun stated that the Strait's stability and unimpeded passage are crucial for global interests. According to Guo, the conflict involving Iran is the primary cause of disruptions in the Strait. China urges all parties to remain calm and exercise restraint to resolve the issue.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday to discuss geopolitical issues, including the conflict in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine. Xi Jinping called for stronger strategic coordination between China and Russia, emphasizing the importance of their relationship amidst international instability. He urged both countries to protect their interests and support Global South unity. Lavrov and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also discussed the Middle East conflict and the Ukraine war on Tuesday. Lavrov offered that Moscow could compensate for China's energy shortages due to the Strait of Hormuz shutdown.