PTC Web Desk: Uncertainty continues to surround the status of the Strait of Hormuz even after Iran declared the critical maritime route open, as multiple oil tankers, including several from India, abruptly reversed their course in the Persian Gulf.

According to marine tracking data cited in recent reports, four Indian vessels, Sanmar Herald, Desh Garima, Desh Vaibhav and Desh Vibhor, along with two Greek tankers, were headed toward the Strait before turning back mid-journey on Saturday. The ships were initially moving from Dubai toward the strategic passage but later changed direction, with most now seen near Iran’s Qeshm Island.

The development comes shortly after Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi publicly stated that the Strait of Hormuz was “completely open” for commercial traffic during the ongoing ceasefire period. However, the situation quickly became unclear as Iranian authorities later indicated that access to the waterway could again be restricted if the United States does not ease its naval presence around Iranian ports.

The sudden shift in messaging has created confusion among shipping operators and raised fresh concerns about the safety and reliability of one of the world’s most vital oil transit routes. Notably, the reason behind the vessels’ decision to halt and retreat has not been officially confirmed.

The six tankers involved are reportedly carrying around 8.3 million barrels of non-Iranian crude oil. Had they successfully passed through the Strait, it would have marked the largest single-day movement of crude from the Gulf region since tensions escalated in late February.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial chokepoint for global energy supplies and any disruption or uncertainty in its operations has immediate ripple effects on international oil markets.