Vessels are continuing to pass through the Strait of Hormuz using a route designated by Oman, despite Iran’s rejection of the lane and warnings to ships crossing outside routes approved by Tehran.

Maritime data reviewed by Al Jazeera shows 21 ships, including oil tankers, have used the Omani route since the first meeting of the joint Iranian-Omani Hormuz committee on June 29. The committee is set up to continue talks on managing navigation in the strait and related services.

Oman announced the shipping transit route last week, saying it coordinated it with the International Maritime Organisation to help ensure freedom of navigation through the strait. It runs near Oman’s Musandam Peninsula and offers ships a shorter, no-fee passage during rising tensions in the Gulf.