Middle East: Increased Risk for Commercial Ships

International shipping is on high alert following recent developments in the Middle East. The United States and Israel have launched strikes against Iran, leading the US Navy to create a broad "maritime warning zone" in the Persian Gulf and surrounding sea areas.

The warning zone includes the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, the northern part of the Arabian Sea, and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy artery. The US Navy Central Command warns that the safety of commercial ships cannot be guaranteed and recommends maintaining a distance of at least 30 nautical miles from warships.

The Greek Ministry of Shipping has issued an urgent recommendation to Greek-flagged ships to be vigilant and avoid critical sea lanes. The European naval mission ASPIDES in the Red Sea has been placed on high alert, as the risk of attacks on commercial shipping cannot be ruled out.

Changes in ship routes are already being observed in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz. The tanker owners' association Intertanko warned of a possible resumption of attacks by the Houthis. Fears are being expressed about targeted seizures of ships linked to American or Israeli interests.

BIMCO's Head of Security, Jakob Larsen, stressed that the risk to shipping in the region has increased dramatically. An increase in war risk insurance premiums is expected, while reports speak of explosions near the Iranian Kharg Island, which handles 90% of Iran's crude oil exports.

Despite the concern, it is estimated that American air and naval superiority may restore security, allowing the resumption of shipping.

Source: newmoney.gr