First Major European Ship Navigates Strait of Hormuz Since Gaza War Begins

A French-owned commercial ship has passed through the Strait of Hormuz. It is the first vessel owned by a major European company to use this route since the Israel-Gaza war started. The strait is a narrow sea passage. It is crucial for global oil shipments, with about one-fifth of the world's oil passing through it. Regional tensions have been high since the conflict began. Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have attacked ships in the nearby Red Sea. They say they target vessels linked to Israel. Many large shipping companies have rerouted their ships away from the area. They now take longer journeys around Africa to avoid the risk. This French ship's successful passage is being closely watched. It may test the current security situation in these important shipping lanes.