Three Months Into Operation Epic Fury: How Iran Restructured Hormuz Instead of Closing It

Three months into Operation Epic Fury, the Strait of Hormuz has undergone a significant structural shift rather than a total closure. Data indicates that maritime transits have plummeted to just 6% of pre-conflict levels, with the remaining traffic predominantly consisting of Iranian-flagged vessels or ships utilizing dark fleet tactics. IRGC small-craft activity has shifted from coastal patrols to the open strait, forcing commercial vessels to navigate increasingly complex security environments while hugging Iranian territorial waters to mitigate risk.

This operational shift presents critical challenges for compliance departments regarding SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. Vessels must strictly adhere to the Maritime Security Level 3 protocols as directed by the flag state and relevant classification societies. Furthermore, maintaining compliance with MARPOL Annex VI regarding emissions while navigating restricted zones remains essential. Failure to document these transits accurately or neglecting to update the Ship Security Plan can lead to severe insurance implications and potential detention by regional authorities.

Navigating officers and masters must prioritize enhanced bridge watchkeeping and radar surveillance to detect non-AIS emitting small craft. These professionals should perform rigorous pre-transit risk assessments and ensure that the Ship Security Alert System is fully operational. It is vital to maintain clear communication with the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and adhere to established transit corridors to ensure the safety of the crew and the vessel during this period of heightened regional volatility.