Iran war: 400 ships still stuck in the Persian Gulf

Over 400 vessels remain stranded in the Persian Gulf amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States. As of August 29, 2026, the situation has not improved despite efforts to resolve the crisis. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global oil shipments, continues to be blocked, with hundreds of ships unable to exit the region. According to reports from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the number of vessels stuck in the area exceeds 400, carrying approximately 6,000 crew members. The IMO confirmed that since the start of the conflict, 70 attacks have been verified against international ships in the Persian Gulf, resulting in the deaths of 19 sailors. The deteriorating security conditions have had a detrimental impact on all parties involved. The dispute over control of the Strait of Hormuz remains a central issue in the broader conflict between the U.S. and Iran. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, there has been little progress toward resolving the impasse. Iran has called for concessions from the U.S. government, while President Donald Trump has sought to apply pressure on Tehran through economic sanctions and other measures. The situation has remained volatile, with both sides maintaining their positions regarding exclusive control over the strategic waterway. Recent developments indicate that the situation along the Strait of Hormuz remains unclear. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has continued to assert its claim over the entire passage, requiring coordination with Iranian authorities before allowing ships to transit. This policy has led to confusion among shipping companies and maritime operators. In a statement, the IRGC reiterated its stance that the passage should be under its authority, further complicating the already tense environment. The flow of commercial traffic through the strait has fluctuated in recent days. While traditional data providers such as Kpler have reported low daily numbers, typically in single digits, the UK Maritime Trade Organisation (UKMTO) recently recorded higher figures. According to UKMTO, approximately 29 freighters passed through the strait each day during the past week. These discrepancies highlight the uncertainty surrounding current operations and underscore the challenges faced by the industry in navigating this high-risk corridor. The prolonged blockage has raised concerns among international stakeholders, particularly those reliant on the steady movement of oil and cargo through the region. With over 400 vessels still trapped, the humanitarian and economic implications continue to mount. Crews aboard these ships face extended periods of uncertainty, with limited access to supplies and communication. The IMO’s General Secretary, Arsenio Dominguez, emphasized the need for immediate action to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of maritime personnel. As the conflict persists, the future of the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain. Diplomatic channels have yet to yield meaningful results, and military posturing continues to dominate the landscape. The international community watches closely, aware that the stability of one of the world's most vital trade routes depends on a resolution to the ongoing standoff. For now, the situation remains frozen, with thousands of lives and billions of dollars hanging in the balance.