Container shipping giant Maersk announced it is redistributing fuel supplies to its vessels amid disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in Iran, which threatens the flow of maritime fuel in the Middle East. The Danish carrier, one of the largest in the world, has ten ships stranded in the Gulf as U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran escalate tensions affecting a significant portion of global oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz.
A Maersk spokesperson stated, “We are proactively redistributing fuel to ensure vessels can continue to bunker where needed,” referring to the refueling process in the maritime industry. While oil tankers have been the primary focus of security concerns, container ships in the Gulf have also faced attacks. For instance, the Japan-flagged ONE Majesty was reportedly struck by an unidentified projectile, causing minor damage but leaving the crew unharmed.
In response to escalating threats, Maersk has suspended operations at the Port of Salalah after drone strikes targeted oil storage facilities nearby. The company has also halted bookings for cargo to and from several Middle Eastern countries while prioritizing critical shipments, such as food and medicines, amid rising fuel costs and operational challenges.
