Hapag-Lloyd, Ocean Network Express (ONE), and A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk) have all taken precautionary operational measures amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, following the official closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Hapag-Lloyd has suspended all vessel transits through the waterway until further notice. The carrier said the decision was driven by safety and regulatory constraints rather than commercial considerations, with conditions in the region described as fluid.
It remains in contact with relevant authorities and security partners as it monitors developments.
Services calling at ports in the Arabian Gulf are now likely to face delays, rerouting, or schedule revisions, and the line is working to limit disruption.
Shippers with cargo already moving, or with planned shipments to and from the region, have been advised to contact their local Hapag-Lloyd representative for guidance.
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Meanwhile, ONE is taking steps to safeguard its seafarers, vessels, landside staff, and customer cargo. With immediate effect, the carrier is temporarily suspending acceptance of new bookings to and from the Persian Gulf.
For cargo currently in transit or planned shipments, ONE is assessing the situation voyage by voyage and will provide updates directly to affected customers as operational plans are reviewed and adjusted.
Maersk has also paused all Trans-Suez sailings through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and is rerouting its Middle East–India to Mediterranean (ME11) and Middle East–India to US East Coast (MECL) services around the Cape of Good Hope.
The carrier emphasised that the safety of crews, vessels, and customer cargo remains its top priority and it continues to monitor developments closely.
Once security conditions stabilise, the Trans-Suez route will resume for ME11 and MECL services, its fastest and most sustainable option.
Collectively, these moves highlight the ongoing operational risks in the region, with safety and continuity of service now taking precedence over commercial schedules.
The measures come as carriers continue to adapt to volatile conditions, manage capacity, and minimise disruption to global supply chains.
For more information:
Hapag-Lloyd – https://www.hapag-lloyd.com/en/home.html
Ocean Network Express (ONE) – https://www.one-line.com/en
Maersk – https://www.maersk.com/
