Logistics companies adjust operations amid escalating conflict in Middle East

Following the coordinated military strike on Iran by the U.S. and Israel, logistics companies operating in the region are warning of potential delays in the supply chain.

Global logistics companies are rerouting vessels and monitoring air cargo movements with the escalating military conflict involving Iran disrupts key trade corridors in the Middle East.

A.P. Moller – Maersk said it is pausing certain sailings and suspending vessel crossings through critical waterways due to the deteriorating security situation.

“Due to the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East region following the escalating military conflict, we have decided – in close coordination with our security partners – to pause future Trans-Suez sailings through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait for the time being,” the company said.

Maersk said all sailings on its ME11 (Middle East-India to Mediterranean) and MECL (Middle East-India to East Coast U.S.) services will be rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope until further notice.

“The safety of our crews, vessels and customers’ cargo remains our key priority and we will continue to monitor the situation closely and take all needed actions. We remain committed to minimising the impact on our customers’ supply chains and will continue to keep them updated on the situation,” the company said.

Maersk added it is “suspending all vessel crossings in the Strait of Hormuz until further notice,” warning that services calling ports in the Arabian Gulf may face delays, rerouting or schedule adjustments. However, acceptance for cargo to the Middle East area remains open.

Meanwhile, CEVA Logistics said it is closely tracking developments and working with carrier partners to manage potential disruptions.

“At CEVA Logistics, we are closely following the events unfolding in Iran and the surrounding region. While our corporate focus remains on supporting our customers, our thoughts are with all those affected by the conflict,” the company said.

CEVA said current supply chain impacts include the closure of air space over much of the Middle East and maritime vessels in the region seeking immediate shelter.

“As a result, we are working closely with our air and ocean carrier partners, both to ensure the latest information on current customer shipments, as well as to develop alternative solutions as the situation evolves,” the company said.

The company noted the Middle East remains an important transit hub between global regions and said it is monitoring both inbound and transit shipments that may be affected. It added it will provide further guidance as more details become available and advised customers with questions about specific shipments to contact their regular CEVA representative.