The US has restricted air defence coverage for tankers traversing the Strait of Hormuz to specific daily time slots, a reduction from previous overnight windows, following increased Iranian attacks on vessels. Since May, Washington provided aerial protection for ships using the Omani coast route, requiring applications to the US Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping (NCAGS) centre. Recent emails indicate the protected period has been narrowed to two brief windows each day, encouraging vessels to transit during these times to receive optimal support.

Officials cite security concerns, noting transiting during darkness is less secure given merchant shipping threats. US Central Command states the NCAGS messages speak for themselves. The adjustment coincides with escalated hostilities, as Iran recently targeted US vessels and oil tankers in response to American strikes on Iranian tankers.

Maritime analyst Joshua Tallis suggests the time-slot restriction is an effective means to manage the costs of persistent US defence, which can range from $25,000 to $75,000 per aircraft hour. Concentrating resources into smaller windows aims to provide better protection. With over 70 commercial vessels attacked since February, Iran has announced plans for a restricted zone in the strait.

Further attacks near Dubai and Iraq were reported by UK Maritime Trade Operations.