What impact does the war in the Middle East have on navigation and maritime security in the area?

Since the beginning of the war against Iran, approximately 77 ships have transited the Strait of Hormuz, most of which are part of the so-called "phantom fleets," according to Lloyd's List Intelligence. Iran has warned that it will attack any ship associated with the US or Israel, although it claims it has not closed the strait. Between March 1 and 11, 20 commercial vessels, including new oil tankers, reported incidents in the region, and the International Maritime Organization confirmed 16 such incidents. Compared to last year, when 1,229 passages were recorded, the current number is significantly lower.

American General Dan Caine acknowledged the complexity of securing the area and mentioned that escorting commercial ships by American military vessels would require additional actions against Iran. In this context, a Turkish ship crossed the strait with Iran's permission, while 14 Turkish vessels remain stuck in the area. The Strait of Hormuz remains a strategic route for hydrocarbon exports, and Iran targets it in retaliation for Israeli-American attacks.