The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of global shipping disruption following a further escalation in military activity across the region.

In the latest development, the US military launched missiles at an unladen tanker it alleges was transporting Iranian oil after the vessel reportedly ignored repeated warnings near Kharg Island. The Curaçao-flagged ship was struck in its smokestack and left disabled, marking another escalation just two days after the US reinstated its naval blockade of Iran.

The incident follows a series of attacks that have intensified pressure on commercial shipping. Over the past 10 days, five vessels have reportedly been targeted by Iran. Two fuel tankers were damaged on 7 July, before Iran announced the renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz on 11 July.

Later that day, the 7,000 TEU container vessel GFS Galaxy suffered significant damage, leading to the rescue of 23 crew members. One seafarer remains missing and is presumed dead. This week, the supertankers Mombasa B and Al Bahyah were also hit by Iranian missiles, resulting in one confirmed fatality and three crew members still unaccounted for.

Despite recent improvements in easing congestion, an estimated 500–600 commercial vessels remain stranded in the Gulf following the initial US action in February. Around half are fuel tankers, while the remainder include container ships, general cargo vessels and support vessels. Approximately 11,000 seafarers are believed to still be onboard.

The ongoing instability continues to strain global supply chains, with ocean freight rates across many Middle Eastern trade lanes now exceeding levels experienced during the pandemic.

Global Logistics Freight Solutions is closely monitoring developments and working with its international network of partners to help minimise disruption and keep customers informed as the situation evolves.