# Shipping in the line of fire – Iran war one month on
A month into the conflict, shipping operations through one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints have effectively ground to a halt, with the Strait of Hormuz experiencing near-total closure. The disruption has left thousands of vessels unable to transit the waterway, while at least 18 ships have sustained damage from direct attacks or strike debris, underscoring the severe risks now facing commercial traffic in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-third of global maritime trade and is essential for energy shipments, making its closure a significant blow to international commerce. The concentration of attacks on merchant vessels represents a substantial escalation in maritime security threats, forcing shipping companies to reassess routing strategies and insurance implications for vessels operating in the area. The stranded fleet represents considerable financial exposure for owners and operators, with demurrage costs and cargo delays mounting daily.
Insurers and vessel operators are now grappling with elevated war risk premiums and potential rerouting via alternative passages, which substantially extend voyage times and increase fuel costs. As the conflict persists, the maritime industry faces mounting pressure to establish safe passage corridors or accelerate alternative logistics solutions. The situation remains fluid, with continued attacks raising questions about the viability of traditional Gulf shipping routes and potentially reshaping regional trade patterns for months to come.