Maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz was thrown into further disruption on Saturday after about 20 ships that had attempted to cross the strategic waterway turned back following the latest escalation in the area.

According to reports, the reversals came as security conditions around the strait deteriorated sharply, raising fresh concerns over freedom of navigation through one of the world’s most important shipping routes.

Reports of fire and armed IRGC presence

Reuters reported that at least two ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz came under fire.

In a separate development, armed vessels belonging to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reportedly approached several ships in the strait. The vessels that were contacted or confronted appear to have turned around rather than continue their passage.

Shipping disruption deepens

The latest incidents point to a worsening operational picture in and around the Strait of Hormuz, where commercial shipping has already been rattled by renewed Iranian moves and rising regional tension.

The apparent decision by multiple ships to reverse course suggests shipping companies and crews are responding immediately to the growing threat environment, even before any formal wider shutdown is confirmed.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global energy chokepoint, and any sustained disruption there could carry major security and economic consequences well beyond the region.