The situation in the Strait of Hormuz has escalated into what can only be described as a "ship show." Following a brief moment of hope for a ceasefire and the reopening of the waterway, the emergence of the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) has thrown maritime operations into chaos. In this Week 16 recap, we break down the conflicting signals: while the U.S. declares the "Southern Highway" open and free for transit, Iran is asserting authority over the entire strait, demanding new "insurance" clearances that many in the industry view as a protection racket. We look at the data from Marine Traffic to see who is actually sailing, which ships are turning their AIS off, and why major carriers like Maersk remain cautious despite the diplomatic "14 points." In this episode: ⚓The impact of the PGSA’s new requirements on global shipping. ⚓Analysis of tanker movements: Who is using the Iranian vs. Omani channels? ⚓The reality of demining efforts and why the "Southern Highway" remains high-risk. ⚓US Blockade Officially Lifted & Toll Uncertainties ⚓How China and Russia are positioning themselves as oil and commodity markets shift. 0:00 - Introduction & The Current "Ship Show" 2:25 - Lloyd's List: Operational Impact of Iran's Closure 3:16 - Marine Traffic Analysis: Tanker Movements & Routes 5:58 - MSC Container Ship Incidents & AIS Behavior 7:27 - Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) & Historical Context 10:04 - Week 16 Recap: From Initial Strikes to Project Freedom 12:35 - Trump's Iran Deal & Market Reactions 13:58 - Challenges of Alternative Routes & Demining 16:53 - Industry Restrictions & Shipping Rate Spikes 18:11 - Qatar Energy & Global LPG Market Shifts 22:08 - Saudi Super Tankers & Loading Operations 23:45 - US Blockade Officially Lifted & Toll Uncertainties 27:10 - US Central Command (CENTCOM) Advisory for Southern Route 29:50 - Other Global Shipping News & Wrap-up Contact What's Going on With Shipping via: Patreon: www.patreon.com/wgowshipping Twitter: @mercoglianos B