The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway in the Persian Gulf, has been reopened but it will not be enough to restore normal shipping operations, according to experts. They argue that empty ships will need to return into the strait to keep the flow of goods moving. Shipping lines are reluctant to enter the Gulf due to concerns that the ceasefire is only temporary. Tankers and ship owners, as well as their insurers, will not allow their ships to re-enter the Gulf unless they are sure they won't be caught for weeks or longer. Without new ships entering the Gulf, oil and other goods made there will remain on hold. The shortages and high oil prices are likely to continue for months.