Status: Live Update – Week Commencing 13 July 2026
This week has seen a significant deterioration in the security situation across the Gulf, with the collapse of the recent ceasefire leading to renewed military exchanges between the United States and Iran. The escalation has once again placed the Strait of Hormuz at the centre of global supply chain concerns, prompting shipping operators, energy markets and logistics providers to reassess operational risks.
While international trade continues to move, vessel traffic through the Strait has slowed considerably as carriers adopt more cautious operating procedures. The renewed uncertainty is beginning to affect freight planning, insurance costs and routing decisions, particularly for shipments moving between Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
As a business operating across international logistics networks, maintaining supply chain visibility and contingency planning remains essential.
The most significant development this week has been the effective breakdown of the June ceasefire agreement, resulting in renewed military activity across the Gulf region.
Current developments include:
The renewed escalation has increased the operational risk profile for carriers transiting the region.
Commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed noticeably this week as shipping companies review safety procedures.
Current conditions include:
Although the Strait remains accessible to some commercial traffic, shipping activity is operating well below normal levels.
Rather than suspending services entirely, many carriers are strengthening operational contingency plans.
This week has seen:
Carriers continue to balance service continuity with the need to protect crews, vessels and cargo.
Renewed concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz have also affected global energy markets.
Logistics providers are monitoring:
As approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply normally transits the Strait, any prolonged disruption would have significant implications for global logistics costs.
The latest escalation is encouraging businesses to reinforce resilience measures introduced earlier this year.
Many organisations are continuing to:
These actions are helping businesses reduce exposure to rapidly changing geopolitical conditions.
Marine insurers continue to monitor developments closely as the security environment evolves.
Current focus areas include:
Businesses moving cargo through the region should continue reviewing insurance cover and maintaining close communication with logistics providers.
While widespread disruption to international trade has not yet occurred, the latest developments demonstrate how quickly geopolitical events can influence global logistics.
Potential impacts include:
The current environment reinforces the need for agile logistics strategies capable of responding to rapidly changing market conditions.
We are actively monitoring:
We will continue to update this blog as the situation evolves.
If your organisation has shipments moving through the Middle East or relies on Asia–Europe trade routes, we recommend maintaining regular communication with your logistics provider and reviewing contingency plans to minimise potential disruption.
If you have any questions relating to your supply chain being impacted by the conflict in the Middle East, reach out by clicking the 'Get in touch' button.