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Maritime traffic data indicates ongoing shuttle tanker movements across the blockade line, calling into question the effectiveness of US enforcement

On April 20, maritime intelligence firm Lloyd’s List reported that at least 26 vessels linked to Iran’s so-called “shadow fleet” have continued operating despite a US naval blockade imposed on 13 April, directly contradicting Washington’s claims that it has blocked Iranian shipping.

Vessel tracking data shows sustained tanker movement in and out of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

The report states that more than 10 ships crossed the blockade line after it was expanded, including 11 tankers carrying Iranian cargo that departed regional waters after 13 April.

Among the identified cases was a Greek-owned bulk carrier that left an Iranian port on 15 April and passed the blockade line on 19 April.

At least 26 Iranian 'shadow fleet' vessels bypass US blockade
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At least 26 vessels linked to Iran’s so-called “shadow fleet” have continued operating since the US implemented its blockade on 13 April, according to Lloyd's List Intelligence.

More than 10 ships have crossed the… pic.twitter.com/dKLIk2X3gd

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The data also names several vessels linked to these movements, including Basel, Touska, Elizabet, and Amak, as well as the Iranian Shipping Lines.

Lloyd’s List said this activity reflects a “steady flow” of maritime traffic tied to Iran, contradicting US military statements that it had “completely halted” Iranian trade and turned back more than 20 vessels.

The vessels are part of a “shadow fleet” with obscured ownership and tracking, using evasive methods to bypass maritime controls and sustain Iranian exports under sanctions and military pressure.

These vessels often disable or manipulate their Automatic Identification System (AIS) signals to obscure their movements and evade detection.

The continued crossings raise questions about the effectiveness of the blockade’s enforcement.

Separate tracking cited in the report shows that, following the expansion of blockade terms on 16 April, 12 vessels crossed the line in both directions.

This activity resumed within days of the blockade’s expansion, showing a quick return to operations.

Additional incidents included continued transits through the Strait of Hormuz and a temporary halt in traffic on 18 April after reports of shots fired and Iranian claims of “strict control” over the waterway.