Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated rapidly, creating a heightened short-term security environment for commercial shipping operating in or transiting the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea / Bab el Mandeb corridor.

Senior US officials indicate that military options against Iran are actively prepared and that decisions could be taken at short notice. This has been accompanied by a visible increase in US and allied naval presence across the region. Iran has responded with live-fire naval exercises, missile activity and maritime warnings, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, reinforcing the risk of sudden navigational restrictions or interference with commercial traffic.  At the same time, Iran-aligned groups, notably the Houthis, continue to threaten commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, sustaining the risk of missile, drone or small-boat attacks.

While no formal hostilities are underway, the current posture materially increases the likelihood of disruption. Vessels may encounter temporary exclusion zones, delays caused by military exercises, intensified monitoring by naval forces, or requests to alter course or speed. The risk of misidentification during periods of heightened military alert is elevated, particularly in congested sea lanes.

Members are advised to review voyage planning carefully, building in flexibility for delay, re-routing or convoy-type arrangements if required by local authorities or naval forces.  Schedules should allow for potential disruption arising from live-fire exercises, port security measures or traffic controls.

The Club advises Members to treat the coming weeks as a period of heightened but manageable operational risk. Enhanced situational awareness, disciplined voyage planning, clear onboard procedures and early communication with insurers will be key to navigating the current environment.