Fracht Group Australia Logistics News Flash - Update on US / Israel - Iran War
16/3/2026
Recent escalation in the Gulf continues to severely disrupt commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Fracht Group is closely monitoring developments and advising customers on ongoing disruptions, alternative routing via the Cape of Good Hope, extended transit times, and rising operational costs.
As of 13 March 2026 Commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively halted following the escalation in late February. Vessel movements remain minimal while continued attacks on merchant ships reinforce the high risk environment.
The strait normally handles roughly 20% of global oil shipments and major LNG volumes. The disruption continues to impact energy exports, shipping networks, and logistics costs worldwide.
Key Developments - 5-13 March 2026
- Commercial shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz remains near zero, with traffic reduced by more than 90% compared to normal levels.
- Additional attacks on merchant vessels have been reported in recent days, further increasing security risks for ships operating in the region.
- War risk insurance restrictions remain in place across Gulf waters, discouraging commercial transit through the area.
- Large volumes of container capacity remain trapped inside the Persian Gulf, which is expected to create equipment shortages across parts of Asia.
- Most shipping services continue to reroute via the Cape of Good Hope, adding significant transit time and creating operational challenges across global networks.
- Congestion is increasing at alternative ports across the region as vessels wait for safe routing or attempt to reposition equipment.
- Rising fuel costs, capacity constraints, and geopolitical uncertainty continue to push transport costs higher across both ocean and air freight markets.
- Air cargo capacity in parts of the region remains constrained due to airspace restrictions and operational disruptions.
Guidance - 13 March 2026
- Expect continued disruptions for Gulf and Middle East connected shipments
- Plan for extended transit times due to rerouting
- Monitor shipment updates closely and review alternatives where possible
- Maintain inventory buffers and contingency plans
- Avoid Gulf transits where feasible
Fracht Group is actively monitoring the fast-evolving situation and will provide further updates.
Customer Service
If you would like further information, please contact one of our friendly Fracht Team members at fracht@frachtsyd.com.au
Sources
Reuters (2026, March 13). Turkish-owned ship allowed to pass through Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing disruption.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/turkish-owned-ship-allowed-pass-through-strait-hormuz-minister-says-2026-03-13/
Reuters (2026, March 13). Air freight rates surge as Middle East conflict disrupts trade routes and capacity.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/air-freight-rates-soar-middle-east-conflict-blocks-trade-routes-2026-03-13/
Project44 (2026, March 10). The closure of the Strait of Hormuz causes mass diversions and shipping disruption.
https://www.project44.com/supply-chain-insights/the-closure-of-the-strait- of-hormuz-causes-mass-diversions-and-shipping-chaos
DDW Logistics (2026, March 12). Middle East freight update – ongoing disruptions in Gulf shipping.
https://www.ddwlogistics.com/news/middle-east-freight-update-12-march-2026
