Key facts
- Tankers are broadcasting their positions in the Strait of Hormuz.
- Tankers had previously operated in "dark mode" with transmitters off.
- The reopening follows a US-Iran deal.
- President Donald Trump mentioned a "secret mission" to escort tankers at night with transmitters off.
- Tanker rates have nearly doubled in a week.
- Some VLCCs are commanding up to $470,000 daily.
- Oil producers are resuming shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Caution persists due to conflicting signals and potential hazards like sea mines.
Tankers have resumed broadcasting their positions in the Strait of Hormuz, signaling a tentative reopening of the critical maritime chokepoint. This development follows a period where vessels operated in "dark mode," turning off their transmitters, amid heightened tensions. The resumption of normal operations appears linked to a US-Iran deal, although the exact terms and implications remain unclear. President Donald Trump has also alluded to a "secret mission" involving the escort of tankers at night, with their transmitters deactivated, which may have contributed to the perceived de-escalation.