Shipowners are expected to delay resuming transit through the Strait of Hormuz for several weeks until they are assured that the recently announced US -Iran agreement is effectively implemented on the ground, according to the CEO of Japan’s Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Jotaro Tamura, talks to the Financial Times, Reuters reported.

Tamura said that a “material” agreement, one that translates into tangible security improvements in the waterway, is necessary before shipping companies regain confidence to fully return to the route.

Tamura noted that, based on recent developments, a gradual return of shipping activity could take “at least a couple of weeks, if not a month,” even after a political agreement is reached. He added that the ongoing finalization of the deal between Washington and Tehran has not altered this cautious outlook.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, one of Japan’s largest shipping firms with a fleet exceeding 900 vessels, including tankers, bulk carriers, and ferries, remains among the major operators closely monitoring security conditions in the region.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated in a post that oil-laden vessels have begun moving through what he described as a secure southern route in the Strait, signaling early signs of recovery in maritime flows.

Despite these indications, industry sentiment remains cautious, with shipowners prioritizing operational safety and waiting for sustained stability before resuming normal transit levels through the strategic waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint handling nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) flows, has witnessed severe disruption since the outbreak of conflict on February 28 following US -Israeli strikes on Iran. The escalation significantly curtailed maritime traffic, impacting not only crude and LNG shipments but also key commodities such as aluminum and urea.