The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to commercial traffic on an insurance basis, Day 208 since the Feb 28 closure declaration [1]. IMF PortWatch recorded 1 transit on Sep 20, the newest measured day, versus a pre-crisis baseline of ~85/day [1]. However, a US official told Middle East Eye and EnergyNow that approximately 60 commercial vessels transited the strait on Wednesday (Sep 24), the highest daily crude volume since early July; about 40 coordinated with US military for protection [1][2]. The discrepancy between PortWatch's measured count and the US official's figure reflects the difference between observed AIS crossings and total escorted/unescorted tonnage — oil passage through Hormuz cannot be confirmed from visible counts alone [1].

Diplomatically, The Guardian reports Iran is awaiting Trump's response to a proposal to reopen the strait within six days; Reuters separately reports US-Iran talks focused on a phased deal [1]. Iran's security chief maintains no step-by-step process exists and the strait stays closed until Tehran's conditions are met, including an end to the blockade and release of frozen assets [1]. At the UN General Assembly, gCaptain reports a coalition of 80 countries called for reopening [1]. Hellenic Shipping News, citing a senior IUMI official, reports marine insurers have lost billions covering war-risk exposures for Hormuz energy flows despite rising premiums [1].

The Sep 23 attack on bulk carrier Cape Dao, in which an Indian sailor was killed, remains the most recent casualty incident; Indian and Omani authorities confirmed the death [1]. The attacker has not been identified. As of 02:49 UTC, 407 AIS-visible vessels were holding position away from berth in the Hormuz/Gulf watch box [1]. Brent stood at $105.80, up 3.50% over 24 hours [1].