Maersk Ships Delay Return To Hormuz Route Despite US-Iran Ceasefire

Danish shipping major Maersk has said it will continue to take a cautious approach to vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz despite the announced ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

The company said the ceasefire could open some limited opportunities for ships to pass through the strait, but there is still not enough clarity on the ground to restart normal operations.

It added that details about the agreement remain very limited and it is working to understand the situation better.

Maersk said the ceasefire does not yet provide full certainty for safe shipping. Any decision to send vessels through the strait will depend on ongoing risk checks, close monitoring of the situation, and guidance from authorities and partners.

The company stressed that the safety of its crew, ships and cargo remains its top priority.

The conflict, which began earlier this year with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran followed by Iranian attacks across the region, led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This brought shipping activity in the Gulf region close to a halt and affected global supply chains.

Maersk confirmed that it is not making any changes to its current services for now. It said visibility in the region remains low and the situation could change quickly in the coming days.

The company had already suspended cargo bookings to several Gulf ports and introduced emergency bunker surcharges to deal with higher fuel costs.

To manage cargo movement, Maersk has been using alternative routes through a land-bridge system.

Shipments are being routed via ports such as Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, Salalah and Sohar in Oman, and Khor Fakkan in the United Arab Emirates, before being moved by land across the Gulf region.

Maersk said it will keep watching the situation closely and will inform customers about any changes to schedules, routes or contingency plans once there is more clarity.

It also advised customers to stay in touch with local representatives and check for updates, including alternative options like land and air transport.

References: Maersk, Reuters