The escalating conflict between Israel, the United States and Iran is causing renewed disruption across global shipping networks. Following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities on 22nd June, and the threat of further retaliation from Tehran, key maritime and air corridors are under growing pressure. The result is increased uncertainty across global supply chains.
Strait of Hormuz under close watch
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil and gas transit routes, remains under intense scrutiny. Approximately 20 percent of global oil shipments pass through this narrow waterway.
On 22nd June, Iran’s parliament voted in favour of closing the Strait in response to the US strikes. While it remains open as of 26th June, major carriers are reviewing routing strategies. War-risk insurance premiums have surged, and some shipping lines have paused operations or implemented heightened security protocols.
Maersk has confirmed the Strait is currently navigable, but they are closely monitoring maritime advisories and preparing contingency plans to respond quickly if conditions change.
Port activity and carrier response in the region
In response to heightened regional risk, some carriers are adjusting port operations. Maersk temporarily suspended vessel calls to the Port of Haifa earlier in June. As of 25th June, import cargo acceptance at Haifa has resumed, though exports remain paused while safety reviews continue.
Operations are ongoing at the Port of Ashdod, but Maersk continues to assess the situation and is ready to adapt as necessary based on security guidance.
Air freight disruption continues
Air freight operations across the region remain disrupted. On 23rd June, Qatar Airways resumed flights from Doha following a temporary airspace closure triggered by Iranian missile strikes on US military bases in Qatar and Iraq.
The closure followed Operation Midnight Hammer, a US-led airstrike campaign targeting Iranian nuclear sites on 22nd June. A brief ceasefire announced on 24th June allowed for some recovery, but airspace risk remains elevated, and schedules continue to be impacted.
Airlines suspend flights across the region
Several major passenger airlines, which also carry cargo, have suspended services to and from the Middle East. British Airways, Air France KLM, Singapore Airlines, United, American Airlines, Air Canada, Finnair and Air Astana have cancelled flights to major hubs including Dubai, Doha and Riyadh.
Routes to Israel, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria remain suspended due to safety concerns. Most suspensions began between 14th and 18th June and remain in place.
Red Sea and Suez Canal disruption grows
Ongoing Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea continue to pose serious risks. As a result, over 80 percent of global container traffic is being rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope, adding significant time and cost to key trade routes.
The wider impact now extends to the Suez Canal and regional port activity:
- Suez Canal traffic is down by around 60 percent compared to normal volumes.
- Eilat Port activity is reportedly down by 85 percent, reflecting the heavy decline in vessel calls to the region.
This extended disruption is straining vessel availability and creating delays across interconnected supply chains.
Supply chain impact across sectors
The disruption across the Gulf, Red Sea and Eastern Mediterranean is driving up freight rates, increasing transit times and challenging the resilience of global logistics networks. Oil prices briefly reached 80 dollars per barrel on 24th June, and the knock-on effects are now being felt across fuel, insurance and transport markets.
Support for your logistics planning
At Beckchoice, we’re monitoring the situation closely and working with our global network to support customers affected by these developments. Whether you’re managing regular shipments or navigating more complex freight challenges, our team is here to help.
If you need advice on routing options, contingency plans or freight strategy, get in touch with us today.
Please note: All information is correct as of 26th June 2025 and is based on the latest available updates. Due to the fast-moving nature of the situation, details are subject to change at short notice. We will continue to share further updates as the situation develops.