Following reports of large‑scale military strikes involving Iran and a subsequent deterioration in the regional security environment, the risk profile for commercial shipping in and around Iran, the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz has increased materially.

The Swedish Club is monitoring developments closely through market channels and local correspondents. The situation remains fluid and may change at short notice.

The security situation within Iran has deteriorated significantly. Disruption to communications, heightened military activity and increased volatility around critical infrastructure mean that Iranian ports and Iranian territorial waters should be regarded as a high‑risk operating environment, where safety conditions and port status may change with little or no notice.

Across the wider Arabian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, commercial shipping movements and port operations are, at present, continuing. However, the overall regional threat level is elevated. Increased naval and air activity, the potential for misidentification, electronic interference (including GPS disruption), drone or missile activity, and the risk of sudden escalation or temporary traffic control measures must be factored into voyage planning and operational decision‑making.

In light of the above, Members are advised to maintain a heightened state of security awareness when trading in or transiting the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and adjacent waters, and ensure Masters and bridge teams (i.e. the navigating officers on the bridge) maintain enhanced vigilance and continuous visual lookout.

Avoid sole reliance on GPS or other satellite navigation systems and make full use of all available navigational aids, including radar, visual bearings and parallel indexing.

Monitor recognised maritime security reporting channels and official advisories, including flag‑state guidance, and report any suspicious activity in accordance with established procedures.

Avoid unnecessary drifting or prolonged waiting in higher‑risk areas, particularly in or near the Strait of Hormuz, and ensure voyage planning includes contingency options for short‑notice routing changes, port delays or traffic control measures.

For voyages involving Iranian calls or proximity to Iranian waters, conduct a documented, voyage‑specific risk assessment, recognising the potential for communications disruption and rapidly changing local operating conditions.

Members are strongly encouraged to engage proactively with their hull and war risks insurers for any intended calls, transits, deviations or prolonged waiting in areas of heightened risk, to ensure clarity on cover and terms. Members with voyage‑specific operational or insurance queries are encouraged to contact the Club at an early stage.

The Swedish Club will continue to assess developments closely, in alignment with prevailing war risks market practice, and will communicate any material changes affecting operations or insurance cover as they arise.