Hormuz Reopens After MoU Signing: Chinese-Led First Movers Alongside Sanctioned Iran Tonnage

Following the U.S.-Iran memorandum signing on June 17, 2026, commercial shipping resumed through the Strait of Hormuz on June 18, with 18 transits marking the highest single-window count of the conflict and Chinese-affiliated vessels comprising five of seven initial movers. The report tracks legitimate commercial traffic departing the Arabian Gulf, reactivating Iranian oil export networks, sanctioned tanker movements, more than 80 IRGC high-speed craft near Kharg Island, and a previously boarded container vessel still stationary mid-Strait, indicating incomplete normalization.