US-Sanctioned Chinese Tanker Transits Through Strait of Hormuz
First sanctioned vessel successfully navigates strategic waterway despite American naval blockade.
- Publish date: Tuesday، 14 April 2026 Reading time: two min read
A Chinese tanker under US sanctions successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, April 14, becoming the first vessel to navigate the strategically vital waterway since Washington initiated a naval blockade operation on Monday evening, April 13.
The Rich Starry, a medium-range tanker, completed its journey after reversing course during an initial attempt the previous day, according to tracking data from MarineTraffic and VesselFinder. The successful transit comes as US President Donald Trump ordered the blockade following failed diplomatic negotiations between Washington and Tehran in Islamabad on Saturday.
US Central Command clarified the scope of the operation, stating the blockade targets "vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas." However, Centcom emphasized that forces "will not impede freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports."
President Trump indicated the US would employ the "same system of kill" used against drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean. Neutral vessels currently in Iranian ports were granted a "grace period" to depart, with officials warning the blockade covers the entire Iranian coastline.
MarineTraffic data revealed that the Rich Starry, a 188-meter chemicals/oil products tanker, turned back within minutes of approaching the chokepoint on Monday. A second vessel, the 175-meter tanker Ostria, similarly reversed course after approaching the strait.
The Rich Starry is reportedly carrying approximately 250,000 barrels of methanol. Both the tanker and its owner, Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping, were placed under US sanctions for dealings with Iran, according to Reuters.
Another sanctioned tanker, the Murlikishan—which has previously transported Russian and Iranian oil—is also attempting passage through the strait on Tuesday.
The waterway was effectively closed by Iran during a 40-day conflict with the US and Israel, triggering significant increases in oil and gas prices and disrupting global supply chains.
This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here