TankerTrackers published satellite imagery from September 14 showing bi-directional daytime VLCC supertanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, the first observable resumption of large tanker transits since the crisis began [1]. The firm also reported increased ship-to-ship transfers in the Gulf of Oman. However, commodity-vessel traffic remained substantially below normal: Reuters reported only 4 vessels exited and 10 entered the Gulf over the weekend, versus a 10-day average of 14/day and pre-war ~125/day [1].

The EL GAIA incident on September 14 remains disputed. IRGC Navy said the tanker struck naval mines south of Hormuz and the strait remains closed under its smart control [2]. CENTCOM rejected the mine account, saying the vessel was first struck by an Iranian missile last month, hit again by a drone over the weekend while off Oman, and is being towed by a regional partner [3]. No independent confirmation of either account.

Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority expanded its blacklist to 77 vessels — up from 56 — warning of fines, detention, and confiscation for violators [1][3]. A Hormozgan official reported two fishing boats struck by drones near Larak Island, with crew missing; unconfirmed [3]. JMIC maintains SEVERE threat rating for commercial shipping [1].

Observation: VLCC daytime movement is a cautious positive signal but does not confirm oil cargoes are completing strait crossings — VLCCs could be moving within the Gulf without transiting the full strait. Insurance-based closure remains operative and oil passage cannot be confirmed from available sources [1][2][3].