Norway Updates Strait of Hormuz Security Warning

The Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) has updated its security instructions for Norwegian-flagged vessels following recent attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.

The NMA advised vessels on July 31 to minimize transit in Iranian territorial waters after previously recommending them to “keep well clear of Iranian territorial waters.”

The ISPS/MARSEC security level remained at level 2, NMA said, noting that boundaries have been slightly adjusted in the Fujairah-area.

“Vessels arriving in Strait of Hormuz within the boundaries of N25.257° – N28° and E054° – E058° are requested to implement security measures as described in their SSP according to ISPS/MarSec level 2,” NMA said in a statement.

The latest update follows the seizing of British-flagged tanker Stena Impero by Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this month. The vessel owner, Stena Bulk, expressed concern for the welfare of the crew on July 30, as the detention of the Stena Impero and its crew entered the 12th day.

“With little progress being made since the vessel was seized on 19th July, we urge governments involved to find a swift resolution so our 23 valued seafarers can return to their families and move on from this ordeal,” Erik Hanell, President and Chief Executive, Stena Bulk, said.

The UK’s Royal Navy has started patrolling the Strait of Hormuz in an effort to protect UK-flagged ships from potential future attacks, while British oil giant BP said it had not taken any of its own tankers through the strait since Iran attempted to seize one of its vessels on July 10.