MIDDLE EAST: REGIONAL TENSIONS AND IMPACTS ON INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS [UPDATE ON APRIL 21, 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.

The situation remains uncertain as the ceasefire between the United States and Iran nears its end. Negotiations remain fragile while the United States maintains the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which is still largely closed. Globally, energy disruptions are affecting several industrial sectors due to supply shortages.

REORGANIZED MARITIME FLOWS

Maritime transport remains particularly impacted by tensions in the Gulf, which remains largely blocked. While Iranian and Kuwaiti ports continue to operate, they face severe constraints, including extended delays and reduced visibility.

Conversely, the United Arab Emirates has confirmed its role as a regional hub, with ports such as Dubai, Fujairah, and Khorfakkan fully operational and heavily utilized for rerouting flows. Saudi Arabia, via Jeddah, is also emerging as a strategic gateway to the region, while Qatar maintains stable activity. In contrast, Bahrain is operating only partially and under increased vigilance. In this context, shipping routes are lengthening significantly, with frequent diversions via Oman, the Red Sea, or alternative corridors.

AIR TRANSPORT UNDER HEAVY OPERATIONAL AND ECONOMIC CONSTRAINTS

The air transport sector is particularly affected by the crisis. The rise in jet fuel prices, combined with supply difficulties linked to the blockade of Hormuz—through which a significant portion of energy flows previously transited—is leading to flight cancellations, reduced capacity, and a general increase in costs.

On the operational side, the major Gulf hubs such as Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi are functioning and remain essential for maintaining international flows, though with constant adjustments. Israel is experiencing a gradual, albeit limited, recovery of its air traffic, while Iran operates under heavy security and routing constraints. Kuwait and Bahrain remain under vigilance, while Jordan and Lebanon maintain relative stability. It is noted that only one airline is currently operating in Lebanon. With limited fuel reserves in certain regions and a heavy reliance on external supplies, the aviation sector faces a risk of long-term disruptions.

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.