MIDDLE EAST: REGIONAL TENSIONS AND IMPACTS ON INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS [UPDATE ON MARCH 17, 2026]

The rapid degradation of the security situation in the Middle East and the intensification of tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are causing immediate adjustments in both air and sea freight, with repercussions impacting all international logistics.

MARITIME INCIDENTS AND TENSIONS AROUND THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ

In response to the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz and repeated attacks targeting commercial vessels, the IMO Council will hold an extraordinary session on March 18 and 19 to examine the impact of the conflict on maritime security and freedom of navigation, as concerns grow over vessel supplies. Stocks are depleting rapidly in some Asian countries that rely on deliveries from Gulf nations, with local governments already implementing restrictions.

Furthermore, tensions are also impacting several logistics hubs in the Gulf. In the United Arab Emirates, a drone attack caused a fire in the Fujairah oil industrial zone, leading to the temporary suspension of oil loading operations at the country’s main oil port. Activity has since resumed. Dubai International Airport also experienced temporary disruptions following a drone-related incident that caused a fire near a fuel tank. Explosions were also reported in Doha, Qatar.

As a reminder, several regional infrastructures are operating under heightened vigilance, and certain shipping routes are being adjusted. Several major shipping lines have suspended or adapted certain rotations to Gulf ports (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Hamad, Dammam, Jubail, or Umm Qasr). Maintained services are now using detours and alternative transshipment hubs such as Salalah, Khor Fakkan, Jeddah, Duqm, or Colombo.

Observed logistics consequences:

• Congestion at several transshipment hubs,
• Extended maritime transit times (up to +10 to +15 days at sea),
• France – Gulf lead times now estimated between 30 and 40 days, compared to the usual 20 to 25 days,
• Increase in risk surcharges and reduction in available capacity,
• Rising fuel costs with a risk of shortages in Asia.

GENERALIZED INCREASE IN LOGISTICS COSTS

The deteriorating regional situation is also leading to a widespread increase in transport costs. Airlines are now applying significant surcharges on air freight. In maritime transport, war risk premiums and fuel surcharges are also rising, with some routes applying increases of up to +50%.

Moreover, tensions in the energy market are contributing to higher operational costs. Oil prices remain on an upward trend, with Brent crude exceeding $100 per barrel, directly impacting transport costs.

This trend is also affecting land transport in Europe. Several carriers and logistics operators have been applying exceptional fuel surcharges of between 4% and 8% on road freight since mid-March, with weekly adjustments based on diesel price fluctuations.

The Middle East crisis is spreading throughout the entire supply chain, from maritime and air transport to land segments, with a projected progressive increase in transport costs.

We are closely monitoring the evolution of the situation in a constantly changing environment and remain mobilized to support you, keep you informed, and offer alternatives adapted to your needs.