01.03.2026 19:36
The increasing military tension in the Middle East is directly affecting not only regional security but also the lifelines of global trade. Following Iran's recent moves, the rising risk level around the Strait of Hormuz has forced the world's largest shipping companies to implement emergency security protocols. Developments in this critical route for energy and container transportation have raised the possibility of a new disruption in the global logistics chain.
Military events in the Middle East have also affected global trade. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's attack on an oil tanker attempting to pass without heeding warnings has alarmed shipping companies.
The world's largest container shipping company, MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company), has issued an emergency code for all its vessels in the Persian Gulf, instructing them to "seek safe havens." The company announced that it has suspended new bookings originating from and destined for the Middle East, stating that the security risks in the region have reached an unmanageable level.
According to industry sources, the decision was made due to increased military activity around the Strait of Hormuz following Iran's recent missile and drone attacks. It is reported that notifications were sent to the vessels in the MSC fleet, instructing them to avoid staying within the Gulf and to head for safe ports as soon as possible.
FRENCH GIANT ALSO ON ALERT
The France-based container shipping giant CMA CGM has similarly decided to reassess its operations in the region. The company has suspended some voyages due to security risks in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz and has redirected its vessels to alternative routes. The company has instructed all its vessels in the region to "find safe havens." In a statement from the company, it was reported that "All vessels that have currently reached the Gulf or are heading towards this region must immediately position themselves in safe waters." Additionally, the company announced that it has temporarily suspended transits through the Suez Canal.
In an assessment from the Paris-based company, it was emphasized that "crew safety is a priority," and it was noted that developments in the region are being closely monitored.
GERMAN AND DANISH LINES CHANGE COURSE
It was reported that Germany-based Hapag-Lloyd and Danish shipping giant Maersk have temporarily halted transits through the Strait of Hormuz, with some vessels making U-turns and heading towards the waters of the Arabian Sea.
Maritime analysts indicate that the military risk in the Gulf has rapidly increased insurance premiums, that war risk coverages are being re-priced, and that an increase in freight costs is expected.
CRITICAL THRESHOLD FOR GLOBAL TRADE
The Strait of Hormuz is known as a strategic waterway through which approximately one-third of the world's oil trade passes. A potential closure or prolonged risk environment could directly affect not only energy markets but also the Asia-Europe container line.
Experts warn that if tensions in the Gulf do not decrease, delays in maritime transport could lead to container shortages, disruptions in product supply, and sharp fluctuations in energy prices.