Conflict in Iran and Middle East Region

Published: 3 March 2026

Updated: 10 March 2026

The situation in the Middle East has created a period of heightened instability and risk across several key maritime corridors in the region. Disruptions continue to evolve rapidly with direct implications for vessel safety, crew welfare and port access across the region. Members are advised to exercise extreme caution due to ongoing military operations and potential spillover risks across the region.

For the latest updates on specific ports, Members can contact our network of local correspondents – simply search for a correspondent using the appropriate port or country. In the event of urgent new P&I claims outside of business hours, Britannia’s 24/7 emergency hotline is available to assist Members.

Below are updates on the current situation and other information Members may find useful.

Security updates

5 March 2026 – Security Update – Africa Risk Compliance Ltd (ARC) – US-Israel Conflict with Iran

4 March 2026 – Security Update – Africa Risk Compliance Ltd (ARC) – US-Israel Conflict with Iran

3 March 2026 – Security Update – Africa Risk Compliance Ltd (ARC) – US-Israel Conflict with Iran

2 March 2026 – Security Update – Africa Risk Compliance Ltd (ARC)  – US-Israel Conflict with Iran

Port updates

Inchape Shipping Services – Middle East Port Operations – continuous updates

Gulf Agency Company (GAC) – Update on the Middle East situation – continuous updates

IMO Circular SN.1/Circ.282 – Anchoring without permission off Malaysia, Indonesia and the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.

Britannia cover updates

1 March 2026 – Britannia Circular – Notice of Cancellation – Persian Gulf – Britannia’s Charterers & Non-Pool R/I Programme

Britannia Loss Prevention guidance

Operating in areas with ongoing geopolitical tensions or conflicts

Navigational risks: GNSS jamming and spoofing

Guidance on fire drills on board

Understanding hull fouling

Dragging anchor prevention

Ship drifting offshore best practice. Location, traffic, weatrher and more

UKMTO updates

A centre providing maritime security information and support to shipping in key global trade regions.

Joint War Committee updates

3 March 2026 – Joint war committee revises listed areas following Iran strikes. The JWC confirmed that Bahrain, Djibouti, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar have been added to the listed areas for hull war, piracy, terrorism and related perils.

 

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