Japanese shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines said two vessels it operates have passed through the effectively blockaded Strait of Hormuz and left the Persian Gulf.

According to the company, the liquefied natural gas tanker SOHAR LNG was the first to transit the Strait of Hormuz and exit the high-risk waters amid the Middle East conflict, followed by the liquefied petroleum gas carrier GREEN SANVI.

With their departure, 43 Japan-related ships remain anchored in the Persian Gulf.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines said it has confirmed the safety of the crew on both ships, adding that it will continue to place the highest priority on the safety of the crew, cargo and vessels.

The destination of the SOHAR LNG has not been disclosed, while the GREEN SANVI carrying LPG was said to be sailing toward India.

The Strait of Hormuz has effectively been closed due to the deteriorating situation in the Middle East.