A Chinese-flagged tanker carrying petroleum products has reversed course back into the Persian Gulf shortly after transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to vessel tracking data, in a development that follows heightened tensions after Washington signalled a potential maritime blockade in the region.
Reversal follows earlier northbound movement
The vessel, identified as Rich Starry, reportedly re-entered the Persian Gulf on Wednesday after briefly passing through the Strait of Hormuz overnight via Iranian territorial waters. Automatic Identification System (AIS) data showed the tanker transmitting signals near Iran’s Qeshm Island before turning back, suggesting it did not complete its onward voyage or deliver its cargo.
The incident comes after the ship had earlier been observed moving in the opposite direction, a passage widely reported in international media amid claims that the US had declared a blockade of the Strait. However, the tanker later stopped approximately 60 miles from the chokepoint before reversing course during the day.
The Rich Starry had declared it was carrying cargo from the United Arab Emirates, but maritime analytics group TankerTrackers has suggested the vessel is more likely transporting sanctioned Iranian oil, consistent with its previous activity.
“The AIS signals create the impression that the RICH STARRY is loaded with petroleum products from the UAE, but in reality it is a serial AIS manipulator and sanctions violator with a history of transporting Iranian oil,” TankerTrackers said, referring to longstanding concerns over deceptive maritime tracking practices involving vessels linked to Iran.
Strategic waterway under renewed pressure
The Strait of Hormuz — a vital global energy shipping route connecting the Persian Gulf Persian Gulf to the open ocean — has been at the centre of renewed geopolitical tension following remarks attributed to US President Donald Trump on April 12.
Trump also stated that the US would begin enforcing a blockade of the strait after talks with Tehran collapsed, instructing the US Navy to monitor and detain vessels allegedly making payments to Iran, as well as to assist in clearing naval mines in the waterway.
