A series of confrontations involving container vessels has unfolded in the Strait of Hormuz following Iran’s brief closure and reopening of the strategic waterway last weekend.

In the latest episode, Iranian forces detained two container ships operated by MSC as they attempted to exit the strait in a convoy of twelve vessels. The ships—MSC Francesca and MV Epaminondas—reportedly switched off their AIS tracking systems in an effort to pass undetected. They were subsequently engaged by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), sustaining damage before being seized. Current tracking data suggests both vessels remain within the strait.

Additionally, four ships from the convoy operated by CMA CGM were intercepted during their transit and instructed to reverse course, failing to complete the passage. Despite these setbacks, six vessels—comprising four additional MSC ships and two smaller independently operated vessels—successfully navigated through and are now tracking beyond the Arabian Sea.

This week’s developments follow two earlier incidents at the weekend. One involved the CMA CGM Everglade, which was approached by Iranian gunboats that fired warning shots as the vessel attempted to transit the strait. The operator later confirmed that neither the ship nor its crew sustained harm.

In a separate incident, US naval forces engaged the Iranian-flagged MV Touska in the Arabian Sea. After the vessel reportedly ignored warnings to evacuate its engine room, US forces opened fire, boarded the ship, and assumed control.

While tensions remain high, there are some indications of improvement in the broader Hormuz situation. The number of vessels stranded in the Gulf has dropped to fewer than 100, representing approximately 270,000 TEU of capacity—down from earlier estimates of 430,000 TEU.

Even so, these incidents underscore the persistent dangers facing commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global trade.