The shipping industry across the Middle East has been placed on high alert following US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, with rising concerns over maritime safety in the Strait of Hormuz—a vital artery for global oil transport.
Greece Issues Urgent Shipping Warning
Greece, home to the world’s largest oil-tanker fleet, has advised vessel owners to “reassess passage” through the Persian Gulf and wait in safe ports. In a government circular, the Greek shipping ministry cited fears of a potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for nearly 20% of global oil supply.
Rising Market Tensions
With the conflict escalating since June 13, tanker earnings have already jumped 90%. While Greek companies are weighing their next moves, some are considering continued entry into the Persian Gulf, drawn by potentially higher freight rates that compensate for risk.
Naval Forces and Operators Respond
Maersk, a major global shipping firm, said it continues to operate through Hormuz but remains ready to reassess based on developments. Naval officials warned that US-linked ships are particularly vulnerable, urging them to adopt maximum security protocols and maintain a safe distance from Iranian waters.
Houthi Threats Resurface
The Houthi rebel group in Yemen—which had paused attacks under a May ceasefire—renewed threats on Sunday, targeting US commercial and naval vessels. The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) confirmed a high risk for such ships transiting the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
EU Naval Forces Raise Threat Level
The European Union’s naval task force in the region also raised its threat assessment for US and Israel-linked vessels, stating that while the risk to other vessels remains low, future attacks on all merchant ships cannot be ruled out.
“This does not exclude the possibility of all merchant vessels being targeted in the future,” warned France’s MICA Center, which tracks global maritime security.
