Three tankers divert from Strait of Hormuz

Three oil and chemical tankers have changed course and diverted away from the Strait of Hormuz, tracking data showed on Monday, as tensions mount following US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and fears of possible Iranian retaliation in the strategic waterway.

MarineTraffic data showed the Marie C and Red Ruby, both sailing in ballast and previously headed toward the Strait, had dropped anchor near Fujairah, off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. A third vessel, the Kohzan Maru, was navigating in the Gulf of Oman, close to Omani waters.

Japan's Nippon Yusen and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines said on Monday they had issued guidance to their ships to minimize time spent in the Persian Gulf while maintaining operations through the Strait.