critical|Insurance04 Mar 2026, 11:00 UTC

War Risk Cover Cancelled for Persian Gulf – Shipowners and Charterers Face Immediate Contractual Exposure

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

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