An update on supply-chain delays caused by conflict in the Middle East
The escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly following recent U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions, has triggered major disruptions to global air and ocean freight operations.
These developments are severely affecting shipments through key Middle Eastern routes and carrying significant worldwide implications, as critical shipping corridors and hubs face closures or heightened risks.
Key Impacts on Freight and Logistics
- Red Sea and Suez Canal Rerouting — Major carriers such as Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd, and CMA CGM have suspended or paused transits through the Red Sea and Suez Canal. This follows a brief period of gradual resumption after earlier Houthi-related threats, but renewed security concerns—including reports of Houthi forces resuming attacks—have forced vessels to divert around the Cape of Good Hope. This rerouting extends transit times by approximately 10–14 days (or more), increases fuel consumption, and ties up substantial container capacity globally.
- Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf Restrictions — Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has come to a near standstill, with many carriers halting or heavily restricting movements into the Persian Gulf. This directly affects major hubs like Dubai’s Jebel Ali port, as well as broader access to Gulf ports. Tanker and container traffic has plunged, with vessels anchoring outside the strait or seeking shelter, amid warnings of potential further closures or attacks.
- Air Freight and Airspace Challenges — Extensive airspace closures across the Middle East have resulted in suspended, delayed, or rerouted flights. This has created significant bottlenecks for air cargo, reducing available capacity and complicating time-sensitive shipments.
- Rising Costs and Additional Fees — Carriers are implementing war-risk surcharges, while spot freight rates are anticipated to increase sharply due to longer routes, capacity constraints, and heightened insurance risks.
Outlook and Recommendations
Businesses should prepare for extended delivery times, supply chain delays, and potential capacity shortages. It is advisable to explore alternative routing options where feasible, book space early, and build buffers into planning timelines. The situation remains highly fluid and unpredictable, with possible short-notice changes to schedules, routes, and network availability.
Support from International Freight Solutions
Our air and ocean freight teams are maintaining ongoing, close communication with carriers and partners to evaluate impacts and ensure service continuity wherever possible. We will share prompt updates on any confirmed disruptions to affected shipments. If you have cargo in transit or planned shipments to/from the region, please contact us for personalized advice and support. We are closely monitoring developments and remain dedicated to responding quickly, adapting operations, and minimizing disruptions for our clients.
BIFA – The leading body representing the UK International Freight Services industry.
Members of BIFA are organisations engaged in the movement of freight to/from the UK by all modes of transport: air, road, sea and rail. Some members also provide customs clearance and other cross border services.
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IFS – providing International Freight Solutions for UK & Worldwide supply chains.