US President Donald Trump has asserted that Washington maintains "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz, describing the ongoing naval blockade as a "tremendous success." However, a very large crude carrier (VLCC) operated by Iran's National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) has reportedly evaded the US Navy and reached the Asia-Pacific, carrying over 1.9 million barrels of crude oil valued at nearly $220 million, according to TankerTrackers.com.
Details of the Evasion
The vessel, identified as "HUGE" (IMO number 9357183), was last spotted off Sri Lanka over a week ago and is now traversing Indonesia’s Lombok Strait toward the Riau Archipelago. In a post on X, TankerTrackers.com stated: "A National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) VLCC supertanker carrying over 1.9 million barrels (valued at nearly $220 million dollars) of crude oil has managed to evade the US Navy and reach the Far East." The report added that HUGE had not transmitted on AIS since March 20, 2026, when it departed the Strait of Malacca for Iran.
Iranian State Media Claims
Iranian state media reports that at least 52 Iranian vessels breached the US-imposed blockade within a 72-hour period. According to Fars News Agency, these ships included 31 oil tankers and 21 cargo vessels. In contrast, the US military maintains that it has intercepted or forced around 41 Iran-linked ships to turn back since the blockade began, as reported by Al Jazeera.
US Officials Defend Blockade
Despite the reported breaches, US officials insist that the blockade is working effectively. They claim it has cost Tehran billions in lost revenue and severely limited its ability to export oil. Washington further argues that Iran may soon be forced to store excess oil until capacity is exhausted, potentially halting production.
Previous Breaches
Earlier last month, data from maritime tracking firm Vortexa suggested that at least 34 tankers linked to Iran have managed to bypass the US naval blockade. Of these, 19 exited the Gulf while 15 entered, indicating continued movement of vessels despite heightened restrictions.
US Naval Presence
The United States has also redirected 48 vessels in the Persian Gulf region over the past 20 days as part of its efforts to enforce restrictions on Iranian maritime activity, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
Blockade Scope and Sanctions
The US has clarified that its blockade targets Iranian ports and coastline, not the Strait of Hormuz itself. Washington has warned shipping companies that they could face sanctions if they make payments to Iran for safe passage through the strait. An alert by the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) stated that such payments could include not only cash but also "digital assets, offsets, informal swaps, or other in-kind payments," including charitable donations or embassy payments.
Iranian Response
Iran had earlier restricted movement in the strait following the outbreak of conflict on February 28, later offering alternative routes near its coastline in exchange for fees.
Strategic Importance
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global chokepoint, handling roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas trade. The US blockade, imposed on April 13 and later expanded, is part of a broader effort to pressure Iran economically and strategically, even as maritime tensions and diplomatic efforts continue in parallel.
