Latest developments across the region
Last week, the United States issued new maritime security advisories warning of escalating risks in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, news reports circulated about a 60-day extension of the ceasefire and a potential deal between the US and Iran. But the Iranian government asserted its role in controlling traffic at the Strait.
The US added the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, the agency assigned to operate Hormuz transits, to the OFAC sanctions list. As a result, shipping lines are unable to transit the Strait of Hormuz without either violating US sanctions or exposing themselves to the risk of attack by Iran.
Additionally, authorities warn of potential mine-laying activities and attempts to assert control over the waterway.
In relation to bunkering concerns, experts say that shortages have not materialised, and supply is considered secure for the foreseeable future.
This is an update as of 1 June 2026. Earlier updates can be found through this link.
Carrier updated response
Generally, container liners still avoid transit through the Strait of Hormuz due to uncertainty in the region.
Carriers continue to announce increased fuel costs, applying that through surcharges. In addition, some carriers are slow-steaming their vessels to mitigate the impact of fuel costs. This is eventually contributing to reduced effective capacity.
The market is witnessing demand being pulled forward into June, linked to expected bunker fuel adjustments and early peak season dynamics.
Chinese carrier COSCO is said to have initiated a coordinated withdrawal of its vessels from the Middle East Gulf. Market data reports that more than 10 Chinese-owned vessels have recently exited the strait, with departures accelerating following diplomatic engagement between China and Iran.
Situation at impacted ports
Most ports in the Persian Gulf report normal operations, albeit with congestion and high alert levels.
According to a recent report by Lloyd’s List, the port disruption in the Gulf is contributing to a reduction of effective global container capacity by approximately 5%.
A US-led blockade is still in place covering Iranian ports across the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, and North Arabian Sea.
Vessel situation and risks
A suspected floating naval mine was sighted at the weekend in Omani waters near the Strait of Hormuz, prompting authorities to issue navigation warnings. Mariners have been urged to exercise extreme caution and keep a safe distance from any suspicious objects amid heightened regional tensions.At the same time, analysts note that Red Sea rerouting and disruption linked to Hormuz have reduced effective capacity by approximately 12%, with slow steaming adding a further 2% reduction. The total effective capacity reduction is estimated at around 19% when congestion impacts are included.
Vessels that fail to comply with the instructions, whether from the US or Iran, may be subject to defensive action.
The latest seaexplorer data shows that there are 98 container vessels currently trapped in the Persian Gulf, with a capacity of 334,553 TEU combined. With the ongoing disruption of GPS signals in the region, accurate information cannot be guaranteed.
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 the latest port and vessel statuses or situation updates, please refer to the seaexplorer alert map.
