Background: Why Is This Happening?

Tensions between Iran and Israel escalated in late June 2025 after U.S. air strikes targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure. In retaliation, Iran launched missile attacks on a U.S. military base in Qatar. Iranian state media claimed these were the final strikes before a ceasefire would be enacted.

President Trump announced an "eternal" ceasefire between Israel and Iran, and hostilities have since subsided. While only limited public confirmation came from Israeli officials, port operations and shipping activity have resumed, indicating practical de-escalation by both sides.

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Strait of Hormuz: Still Open, but Under Watch

Despite the geopolitical volatility, the Strait of Hormuz remains fully open and operational. Hapag-Lloyd and other major shipping lines confirmed they are continuing operations in the area without rerouting.

However, following Iran’s parliamentary vote on June 22 to approve closure of the Strait - pending ratification by its Supreme National Security Council - the global maritime industry remains cautious. The Strait is a critical chokepoint for global energy flows, with approximately 20–25% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) passing through it.

Any disruption to this route could lead to major supply chain delays, increased insurance premiums, and sharp rises in fuel and freight costs globally.

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Logistics Impacts & Current Conditions

- Hormuz: Operational, but shipping lines continue to monitor risks closely. Tanker flows have slowed slightly, and war-risk insurance premiums have increased.

- Carrier status: Hapag-Lloyd and others remain active in the region; Maersk resumed Haifa port calls after a brief pause earlier in the month.

- Port congestion: HMM reports that European container terminals remain congested, but gradual improvements are being observed.

- Red Sea corridor: No major changes. Re-routing via the Cape of Good Hope remains a common contingency for many carriers.

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Recommendations from Moorhouse Logistics

To support our clients during this volatile period, we recommend the following:

- Monitor Middle East–bound shipments closely
Stay informed about transit status, especially for routes through the Gulf.

- Check insurance terms
Ensure your freight policies include updated war-risk and geopolitical risk coverage.

- Build flexibility into your planning
Where possible, plan alternative routes or longer lead times for shipments to/from affected regions.

- Stay connected with us
Moorhouse Logistics is in constant contact with carrier partners, and we will keep you informed of any real-time changes or risks.

As of June30, the Strait of Hormuz remains fully operational, and major carriers have not rerouted. While the threat level has eased following ceasefire claims, the risk environment remains dynamic. Moorhouse Logistics continues to monitor developments closely to protect your cargo, mitigate exposure, and ensure continuity across every route.

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