The situation has become worrying due to increasing tension in the Arabian Gulf, where about 20,000 sailors and 15,000 cruise passengers are stranded. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), many big shipping companies have stopped their ships in view of the security threat around the Strait of Hormuz. According to reports as of 5 March 2026, approximately 150 container ships and 450 oil tankers are stuck in the region.
Why was the path of ships blocked in the sea?
Due to lack of security in sea routes, big companies like MSC, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have suspended their services. According to the data, 2 people have died and 7 have been injured in the attacks since February 28. For this reason, insurance companies (Gard and Skuld) have announced to end ‘war-risk cover’ for ships plying on this route from March 5. OOCL has asked its ships to stay 200 nautical miles away from the strait.
What is the new order for passengers and cargo?
Relief flights: Qatar Airways and Abu Dhabi have announced to start some special relief flights from March 5 to evacuate stranded passengers. Impact on cargo: MSC has announced that cargo destined for the Gulf will now be unloaded at safe ports such as Salalah or Jeddah. Extra Expenses: MSC has imposed an additional charge of $800 per container and Hapag-Lloyd has imposed an additional charge of $1500 per container due to diversion of ships. Danger: Due to the ongoing tension between America and Iran, this route is not currently considered safe for ordinary ships.
