Shipping firms question safety in strait of Hormuz despite Trump plan
Shipping firms have expressed skepticism about the safety of vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz despite President Donald Trump's announcement of a US Navy-led operation to guide stranded ships. Iran claimed a US warship was hit by missiles while the US denied the incident, fueling uncertainty and raising oil prices. Industry experts question the sustainability and safety of the plan, citing risks from mines, lack of insurance, and absence of Iranian consent.
- ▪President Donald Trump announced 'Project Freedom,' in which the US Navy would guide stranded ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
- ▪Iran's Fars news agency reported a US warship was hit by two missiles, though the US denied the claim.
- ▪Over 850 vessels are reportedly trapped in the Gulf, and shipping experts have raised concerns about safety, insurance, and Iranian military threats.
- ▪US Central Command stated that two US-flagged merchant vessels successfully transited the strait.
- ▪Brent crude rose about 2% to $110.36 a barrel amid rising tensions and conflicting reports.
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A bulk cargo ship anchored in the strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran. Photograph: Amirhosein Khorgooi/APView image in fullscreenA bulk cargo ship anchored in the strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran. Photograph: Amirhosein Khorgooi/APShipping industryShipping firms question safety in strait of Hormuz despite Trump planPresident says US navy will ‘guide’ stranded ships out of waterway but report says warship was hit by Iran Middle East crisis – live updates Simon GoodleyMon 4 May 2026 10.51 EDTLast modified on Mon 4 May 2026 11.11 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe world’s shipping industry has questioned whether vessels will be able to travel safely to and from the Gulf after Donald Trump announced his latest plan to open the strait of Hormuz.Trump wrote on Monday that the…
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