Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd are cautiously resuming transits through the Suez Canal after a year-long avoidance due to Houthi attacks. This tentative return follows a ceasefire in Gaza, though concerns over regional stability persist. Increased surcharges by the Suez Canal Authority in 2026 further complicate shipping dynamics for exporters.
A cargo vessel, the Lady Naeima, was attacked off Yemen’s coast, with armed assailants in skiffs opening fire. This incident underscores the ongoing security risks in the Red Sea, prompting shipping companies to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid Houthi attacks and ensure crew safety.
Ships continue to transit the Strait of Hormuz, but fewer are broadcasting their movements due to recent attacks. Iran targeted an oil tanker, raising safety concerns among shipping companies. Despite this, US-supported navigation remains uninterrupted, and traffic has stayed above average levels, albeit with increased caution regarding electronic tracking.
The Indian-flagged bulk carrier APJ Priti 2 successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, transporting 65,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser amid regional tensions. This transit is a positive sign for India’s cargo movement, alleviating logistical pressures and ensuring the vital supply of fertiliser for agricultural chains, despite lingering security concerns.
Oman has informed European officials that returning to pre-war conditions in the Strait of Hormuz is not feasible, potentially resulting in transit fees for ships. While Omani representatives emphasize adherence to international maritime law, discussions about operational costs with Iran create concerns about a possible toll system amidst rising tensions in the region.
A Singapore-flagged containership was hit by an unidentified projectile off Oman, coinciding with Iranian warnings that vessels need permission to navigate the Strait of Hormuz. The incident caused damage to the ship’s bridge but no casualties. This marks the first attack on a commercial vessel since recent U.S.-Iran agreements.
Ships have begun navigating the Strait of Hormuz under a U.N. initiative aimed at evacuating vessels stranded by conflict. This plan, following a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, allows hundreds of ships to transit safely. Traffic has risen, yet remains below pre-conflict levels, highlighting ongoing safety concerns.
On Tuesday, three supertankers navigated the Strait of Hormuz, hinting at a potential revival in Gulf gas shipping. Recent ship-tracking data shows increased activity from Iranian-affiliated vessels as U.S.-Iran negotiations progress. Analysts predict that more crude oil cargoes stranded in the Gulf will soon depart, easing global supply concerns.
Major shipowners have resumed navigating the Strait of Hormuz after a recent US-Iran agreement, marking the first significant vessel activity in 110 days. While key routes remain compromised due to mines, vessels are now using smaller northern and southern passages, allowing tankers from major firms to transit the vital corridor.
Iran has mandated a “maritime service fee” for vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, clarifying it is not a toll but for navigation assistance and environmental protections. Despite a framework agreement with the U.S. aimed at peace, officials express deep-seated distrust, emphasizing the need for U.S. adherence to commitments.
A recent US-Iran deal to potentially reopen the Strait of Hormuz has garnered skepticism from shipowners and traders seeking clarity before resuming transits. The strait, vital for global oil shipments, has faced disruptions due to previous conflicts. While initial transits may be free, safety concerns remain paramount among shipping leaders.
Japanese shippers expressed cautious optimism on Monday regarding the U.S.-Iran peace agreement, anticipating the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, they await further details and mine clearance before navigating this critical route. Currently, 38 Japanese-linked ships remain stranded, highlighting the complexities of resuming operations amidst ongoing regional tensions.
In April, oil tanker traffic through Egypt’s Suez Canal surged nearly 30%, yielding the highest revenue since early 2024. This increase followed the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, pushing countries like Saudi Arabia to seek alternative routes. Revenue reached $419 million, reflecting a 27% rise from last year.
On May 30, 2026, the Shipping Ministry announced the successful navigation of the Marshall Island-flagged tanker Nissos Keros through the Strait of Hormuz, carrying 270,000 tonnes of crude oil. Scheduled to reach Visakhapatnam on June 3, this transit highlights India’s commitment to maritime safety amid geopolitical tensions in the region.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is monitoring 17 vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, carrying nearly 300 Filipino seafarers. This highlights the risks faced by maritime workers in the region. The DMW is collaborating with various agencies to ensure safety, provide real-time updates, and support affected seafarers and their families.
