Ships Declare 'China-Linked' Status in Strait of Hormuz to Dodge Iran Attacks

• Commercial vessels in Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf are identifying as 'China-linked' in tracking signals to avoid attacks amid the Iran conflict.
• Marine traffic data shows at least eight ships altered destination messages to "CHINA OWNER" or "CHINA OWNER&CREW".
• The tactic aims to reduce attack likelihood, as Iranian forces generally avoid targeting China-linked vessels due to Beijing's neutrality and strong economic ties with Tehran.
• Concerns heightened after 19 commercial ships were reportedly damaged since the conflict began.
• Similar tactics were observed during Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, where some vessels also identified as China-linked.