The United States has lifted restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, allowing oil tanker traffic to resume through one of the world’s most critical energy routes, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
In a statement posted on its official X account on Thursday evening, June 18, CENTCOM said the decision followed an order from US President Donald Trump.
Following the announcement, commercial shipping through the strait reportedly resumed, restoring the movement of oil tankers across the strategic waterway.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance said approximately 12.5 million barrels of oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz on the night of June 18, describing it as the highest volume recorded since the start of the US–Iran conflict.
CENTCOM also announced the lifting of restrictions on Iranian ports, which has enabled the resumption of vessel traffic along the key energy corridor.
Strategic route reopened after tensions
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most important chokepoints in global energy trade, with roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passing through it under normal conditions. Shipping disruptions during the recent escalation had previously driven Brent crude prices up to $120 per barrel.
Following the reopening, oil prices fell sharply. Brent crude futures dropped below $78 per barrel, marking the lowest level since the beginning of the conflict on February 28, according to Reuters.
Analysts warn recovery will take time
Despite the reopening, analysts cited by the BBC’s Russian Service cautioned that a rapid return to pre-conflict oil prices is unlikely.
They note that although a temporary truce appears to be in place, the conflict has not formally ended, and markets continue to factor in a “risk premium” due to the possibility of renewed escalation.
In addition, months of disruption in the Persian Gulf region have reduced production capacity and forced suppliers to reorganize logistics networks. Restoring full output and transport flows is expected to take time.
Another factor supporting prices is the need for countries to rebuild strategic oil reserves that were drawn down during the crisis.
Analysts therefore expect a gradual price decline rather than an immediate return to pre-war levels, with full stabilization potentially taking months or even a year depending on geopolitical developments.
