Three reasons ships are not going – Despite President Donald Trump’s claim that the United States had “opened” the Strait of Hormuz following a deal with Iran, maritime activity has not resumed at expected levels. Data from MarineTraffic, a global ship-tracking service, reveals that only seven vessels have passed through the strait since the announcement. Meanwhile, over 580 ships appear to be lingering in the Gulf, waiting for a safer passage. The critical waterway, which normally handles approximately 20% of the world’s oil and gas exports, has remained under Iranian control since late February, when the country effectively closed it after US and Israeli strikes.

Experts cite three major challenges preventing the return of normal shipping operations. First, lingering security concerns have captains hesitating to transit the strait. Second, the presence of mines poses a direct threat, as Iran has warned of deploying them in the region. Third, tolls imposed…