The International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (INTERTANKO) has welcomed the clearance of sea mines from internationally recognized shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz but said the development alone is not enough to restore normal commercial traffic. The group said wider security risks continue to affect shipping operations in the area.

U.S. Central Command confirmed that mines had been cleared from the Strait’s Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS), removing a major threat that has affected tanker operations for months. However, INTERTANKO said vessels using the established shipping lanes could still face interference as tensions remain in the region.

INTERTANKO said shipowners will continue to decide whether to transit the Strait based on security guidance, vessel-specific risk assessments and the safety of their crews. The association has also advised operators to consider the latest information from maritime authorities before attempting passage through the area.

The group said the internationally recognized TSS should eventually return as the established route for commercial shipping once the broader security situation becomes stable. Until then, safety of seafarers and secure vessel movements are expected to remain the main considerations for companies operating through the Strait of Hormuz.