Following coordinated Israeli and US military strikes against Iran, war risk underwriters have cancelled coverage for parts of the Persian Gulf, creating immediate insurance gaps for vessel operators and cargo interests. Shipowners may invoke safety clauses to refuse port calls in the affected zone, while charterers face urgent contractual liability questions and must identify alternative routing options. Logistics operators should immediately audit charter party war clauses, secure additional war risk cover if available, and prepare for significant premium increases or coverage voids.
Rate Direction
Rates up +35.00%
Time Horizon
immediate
Confidence
72%
Routes Affected
Strait of Hormuz / Persian Gulf / Indian Ocean / Red Sea
Ports / Terminals
Jebel Ali / Bandar Abbas / Fujairah / Abu Dhabi / Salalah / Dammam / Ras Tanura
Carriers
MSC / Maersk / CMA CGM / Hapag-Lloyd / COSCO / Evergreen / MOL / NYK
Source
https://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/the-middle-east-conflict-contractual-and-insurance-implications/published 04 Mar 2026, 11:00 UTC