The oil tanker "DRAGON FORTUNE" belonging to the United Arab Emirates, which was moving towards the Strait of Hormuz under the escort of the U.S. Air Force, changed its course and turned back after receiving a warning. The activation of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) on this tanker indicates a shift in its status from "stealth" mode to "compliance with Iran's declared regulations."
Change of Course and Maritime Warnings
According to field reports, the DRAGON FORTUNE tanker decided to change its course and head towards safer waters after receiving a warning from U.S. forces. Previously, many ships would turn off their tracking systems or adopt false identities to avoid being monitored while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. However, this time, the activation of the AIS on the DRAGON FORTUNE tanker indicates that this vessel was inclined to comply with Iran's declared regulations.
Read more: The Cargo of the "Arzoo" Tanker is Under Sanctions
Economic and Security Impacts
This incident once again proves that U.S. military escort is not capable of ensuring the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has clearly established a "passage with permission" regime in this vital waterway. Experts believe that the continuation of this trend could increase insurance and maritime transportation costs and stabilize oil prices at higher levels. Last week, oil exports from the Gulf fell below 5 million barrels per day, and international shipping companies are significantly reconsidering their routes.
Read more: Middle East Oil Exports at Higher Levels than Before the U.S.-Israel War · Max Boot's Analysis of Oil Export Status and Iran Sanctions
