Latest developments across the region
The United States and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire on Wednesday, 8 April 2026. Under the terms communicated by Iran, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz may be permitted during this period if coordinated with Iranian military authorities and subject to technical limitations.
According to the information circulated in the media about the agreement, revenue from the fee for passage through the vital trade route is to be shared with neighbouring Oman. Details about this fee system remain unclear.
Despite the ceasefire announcement, the precise timing and conditions under which commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf may resume transit through the Strait of Hormuz remain undefined.
Meanwhile, Israel confirmed a halt to attacks against Iran following the ceasefire, while indicating continued military operations in Lebanon.
Carrier updated response
According to media reports, Danish carrier Maersk indicated that the ceasefire could support a resumption of transits through the Strait of Hormuz, while noting that the agreement does not yet provide sufficient security assurances.
The carrier stated that additional clarity is required before normal operations can restart.
Hapag-Lloyd also signalled cautious optimism, highlighting that wider network recovery would require sustained stability.
The carrier advised that disruption across shipping networks and supply chains persists, with additional costs continuing to accrue as a result of the situation.
Situation at impacted ports
Port conditions across the region remain stable, with all ports in the Persian Gulf reporting normal operations.
Vessel situation and risks
The announcement of a temporary ceasefire has led shipowners to prepare for departures from the Middle East Gulf, where a large number of vessels have remained stranded since late February.
However, transit protocols and commercial conditions linked to the ceasefire are not yet fully defined.
A container vessel chartered by Maersk, Qingdao Star, was involved in a security incident in the Persian Gulf during the early hours of Tuesday, 7 April. The vessel sustained damage after being struck by a projectile, but remained operational and was able to continue sailing under its own propulsion.
Maersk confirmed that the vessel is proceeding to its next port of call, where further inspections will be carried out.
According to seaexplorer data, 113 container vessels with a combined capacity of approximately 390,000 TEU are currently located within the Persian Gulf.
Separately, Israeli authorities have issued navigational warnings advising vessels to avoid areas off the Lebanese coast following reported security threats.
Kuehne+Nagel continues to monitor the situation closely with timely updates on SeaNews and the Kuehne+Nagel page Middle East situation - Kuehne+Nagel operations. For earlier updates, please use this link.
To check the latest port and vessel statuses or situation updates, please refer to the seaexplorer alert map.
