Story perspectives

Cruise Ships Clear Strait of Hormuz Amid Tensions

4/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

All six cruise ships stranded in the Persian Gulf since the Iran war have cleared the Strait of Hormuz.
During the brief April 17 reopening after a ceasefire, Celestyal Discovery was first and Aroya Manara last to exit on April 20.
Iran reimposed restrictions, with reports indicating Iranian forces fired upon vessels in the area.
Ships reposition for summer sailings, with MSC Euribia to depart from Kiel on May 16.

History

Historical Context

The Iran-Iraq War, which began on September 22, 1980, escalated geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf, particularly through the "Tanker War" phase starting in 1984. This conflict saw Iraq targeting Iranian oil exports, while Iran retaliated against Kuwaiti tankers. The war's legacy includes ongoing maritime security issues, as evidenced by the recent clearance of six cruise ships amid heightened scrutiny of Iran's military actions in the region.

1 of 2

Story summary

All six cruise ships stranded in the Persian Gulf since the Iran war have cleared the Strait of Hormuz.
During the brief April 17 reopening after a ceasefire, Celestyal Discovery was first and Aroya Manara last to exit on April 20.
Iran reimposed restrictions, with reports indicating Iranian forces fired upon vessels in the area.
Ships reposition for summer sailings, with MSC Euribia to depart from Kiel on May 16.

1 / 2