There have been reports that Iran might allow a limited number of tankers to pass if the cargo is traded in Chinese Yuan, or that vessels broadcasting “CHINA OWNER” on their tracking systems might be spared. However, in a militarized, chaotic waterway where GPS jamming and drone strikes are the new normal, these unofficial workarounds are highly unreliable. If Beijing determines that diplomatic assurances aren’t enough to protect its massive energy requirements, it will look for military solutions.
