A fleet of about 20 ships tried to exit the Gulf on Friday evening, but most turned back by 2100 GMT, underscoring the lingering uncertainty that still surrounds the Strait of Hormuz after Iran's brief announcement of an opening. Iran's statement came amid a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon, a move that has already pushed oil and commodity prices lower and lifted stock markets. The announcement was the first indication that the waterway might be open to all commercial traffic since the February 28 U.S.-Israeli strikes that had effectively closed the strait. Tracking data shows the group included three container ships operated by CMA CGM , a number of tankers, and other vessels that halted or turned back. While the majority of the fleet withdrew, new ships—primarily tankers—continued to head toward the strait. Shipping companies, including Hapag-Lloyd , Maersk , and the Norwegian oil tanker group Frontline , expressed caution, citing unresolved mine threats and the need for clear navigation lanes. The secretary-general of the International Maritime Organization, Arsenio Dominguez , said the agency was verifying the announcement, adding, "We are currently verifying the recent announcement related to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, in terms of its compliance with freedom of navigation for all merchant vessels and secure passage." CEO Knut Arild Hareide of Norway's Shipowners' Association welcomed the development but warned that "key issues remain unresolved." Lead freight analyst Matt Wright of Kpler noted uncertainty over which sea lanes the ships could safely use, especially given a new route imposed by Tehran near Larak Island. With the U.S. Navy issuing advisories on mine danger and the International Maritime Organization still confirming compliance, shipping firms are likely to wait for clearer guidance before resuming regular transit. The reopening, however, signals a potential easing of tensions that could restore confidence in the region's critical energy corridor.