As ships begin to trickle through the Strait of Hormuz, uncertainties loom over how quickly normal shipping traffic can resume. While U.S. officials express optimism about the strait being toll-free and reopening fully, shipping executives warn that it may take weeks or even months to restore confidence in the route. The backdrop includes challenges such as naval mines, damaged infrastructure, and ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Iranian influence. Despite recent agreements signaling a thaw between the U.S. and Iran, the shipping industry remains cautious, with many vessels hesitating to fully resume operations. Factors such as broken logistics and the need for assurances about safety will play a crucial role in determining how long it will take for energy flows to return to normal levels.