Global shipping faces a dual crisis. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has closed the Strait of Hormuz after joint US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Hormuz shutdown: no passage permitted
The IRGC announced a full blockade of the strait. Iranian naval forces are broadcasting that no ship can pass under any circumstances, according to Reuters. The move traps vessels inside the Persian Gulf and cuts off major hubs such as Jebel Ali from global ocean trade.
There is no maritime alternative to the Persian Gulf. The closure creates an immediate deadlock for energy and container flows.
Maersk and CMA CGM divert services
Major container lines have reversed plans to return to the Suez Canal in 2026.
Maersk confirmed that it is diverting its ME11 and MECL services around the Cape of Good Hope instead of transiting the Red Sea.
CMA CGM has shelved plans to return its FAL1, FAL3 and MEX services to the Red Sea. The carrier cited a “complex and uncertain international context.”
With Hormuz blocked and Houthi militia expected to resume attacks in the Red Sea, carriers are prioritising crew and cargo safety over transit times.
Hapag-Lloyd suspends Strait of Hormuz transits
Hapag-Lloyd has suspended all vessel transits through the Strait of Hormuz until further notice.
The carrier said the decision is mandatory due to the evolving security situation and official closure of the waterway. It stressed that crew, vessel and cargo safety remain its highest priority.
Hapag-Lloyd is monitoring developments closely and remains in contact with authorities and security partners.
Services calling ports in the Arabian Gulf may face delays, rerouting or schedule changes. The company said it is working to minimise disruption and will inform customers of any material shipment updates.
Impact on global trade
The blockade creates a critical bottleneck across energy and container markets.
Port congestion: Major hubs such as Jebel Ali are effectively cut off. Vessels inside the Gulf cannot sail out. New arrivals cannot enter.
Rerouting: Carriers will likely discharge cargo at alternative regional ports. Operators will then move shipments onward by road where infrastructure allows.
Longer transits: Diversions around the Cape of Good Hope add roughly 10–14 days to most Asia–Europe and Asia–US East Coast routes.
Shippers now face longer lead times, higher fuel costs and mounting schedule disruption. With no immediate maritime workaround, supply chains must prepare for extended diversions around Africa for the remainder of the year.
