Two container ships linked to the Chinese state-owned conglomerate Cosco Shipping Corp. are once again attempting to leave the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz—just days after their previous effort was aborted. Vessel-tracking data points to the renewed attempt.
CSCL Indian Ocean and CSCL Arctic Ocean departed waters off the coast of Dubai on Monday morning and set course northeast—toward the passage between the Iranian islands of Larak and Qeshm, near the narrow entrance to the strait. According to information on the company’s website, both vessels are part of the fleet of Cosco Shipping Lines Co., a subsidiary of Cosco Shipping Corp.
The container ships CSCL Indian Ocean (white) and CSCL Arctic Ocean (blue) are seen heading toward Iranian waters in an attempt to pass eastward through the Strait of Hormuz.
In response to US and Israeli strikes, Iran has effectively sealed off the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most important trade arteries. In recent days, only select vessels have been allowed through, with Tehran’s approval, including liquefied petroleum gas tankers.
Both container ships are broadcasting signals indicating Chinese affiliation and the presence of a Chinese crew—presumably in the hope of securing safe passage. The same tactic was used on Friday, when the vessels turned back near Iranian waters. Why they chose to return at that point remains unclear.
On Monday, March 30, both ships, each capable of carrying about 19,000 standard containers, are once again following the same route. Since the start of the US-Israeli war against Iran, they have remained stranded in the Persian Gulf for more than a month.