The European Union has begun delaying the release of satellite images showing shipping lanes near the Strait of Hormuz by 24 hours. This move, initiated after an earlier request from the US government, coincides with heightened tensions between the two powers.

The unusual change in Europe’s Copernicus Earth observation program’s policy was revealed by Space News, which reviewed a copy of the decision made by the Council of the EU on July 13. The ordered delay applies to images taken by Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 satellites and covers the Gulf of Oman region that includes shipping lanes leading to and from the contested Strait of Hormuz.

The US government first requested the restriction on Copernicus satellite imagery on May 26, according to a decision document seen by Space News. This request came during a shaky ceasefire period for the war that began on April 8 and ended on July 8 when the US military resumed its broader campaign of military strikes following President Donald Trump's announcement.

Satellite imagery has played an important role in both military operations and open-source intelligence during this conflict. The US military and US intelligence agencies have continuously monitored Iranian activity using their satellite constellations, while Iran has turned to Chinese satellites for similar purposes. With the new delay, the balance of power might shift once more.