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Vance Declares Hormuz Blockade Lifted, Tanker Flow Remains Low

6/20/2026

39 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Vice President JD Vance announced the blockade was lifted, allowing commercial ships to transit the Strait of Hormuz after 110 days.
Kpler reported at least 20 tankers crossed Thursday, total 25, far below the pre-war average of over 100.
Iran now requires permits and may add insurance fees after 60 days.
Kuwait Petroleum Corp and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company have issued tenders to raise crude exports despite mine-clearance.

History

Historical Context

Operation Desert Storm’s 1991 naval blockade, authorized by UN resolutions, saw U.S. and British ships inspect about 1,200 tankers, slashing Iraq’s oil flow from 2.5 million to under 300,000 barrels daily and curbing over 90 % of exports. The current Hormuz reopening, pressured by Iran’s permit demands, mirrors that precedent as Kuwait Petroleum and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company scramble to restore shipments.

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Story summary

U.S. Vice President JD Vance announced the blockade was lifted, allowing commercial ships to transit the Strait of Hormuz after 110 days.
Kpler reported at least 20 tankers crossed Thursday, total 25, far below the pre-war average of over 100.
Iran now requires permits and may add insurance fees after 60 days.
Kuwait Petroleum Corp and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company have issued tenders to raise crude exports despite mine-clearance.

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