Commercial shipping faces elevated threats in the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and the Black Sea as conflicts directly affect major maritime routes.
Explosions and attacks on August 6 and August 7 show that despite de-escalation efforts, conditions for vessels, crews, ports and energy infrastructure remain highly fragile.
Explosions occurred on Qeshm Island on the evening of August 6. Iranian media reported that the country's forces engaged hostile targets near the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. There is no sufficient evidence yet that commercial ships were targeted.
The incidents happen while the United States and Iran have no agreement to restore free navigation in the strait. The US has made clear there is no final agreement to reopen the waterway under normal conditions, while Tehran said any new US military operation could trigger retaliation against energy facilities in the Persian Gulf.
The Arabian Gulf holds a substantial risk rating of 3 out of 5 for commercial vessels. Energy infrastructure and ports in Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia face a high risk of 4 out of 5.
Red Sea strikes
Houthi forces launched new missile and drone attacks on August 6 against Saudi-backed military positions in Yemen. Available information indicates at least 45 people were killed.
Attacks also struck the Najran region of Saudi Arabia, injuring 11 civilians. These followed an attack on the Najran airport on August 4.
The risk for ships linked to Saudi Arabia and Saudi ports in the Red Sea remains at the extreme level of 5 out of 5. The situation pressures shipping companies deciding whether to operate in the region, as ties to Saudi interests can increase a vessel's exposure to danger.
Black Sea attacks
Two commercial vessels were attacked near Odesa on August 6. The cargo ship Mera Queen (IMO 9664108) was struck while transporting Ukrainian wheat. The attack killed one person and injured three others.
The bulk carrier Emil (IMO 9462483) suffered repeated strikes that started fires and caused the vessel to lose maneuverability. Eleven crew members were evacuated from the ship.
Russia said both vessels were carrying military cargo. Commercial vessels remain directly exposed to military operations around Ukrainian ports. The risk for commercial shipping in the area is rated extreme, or 5 out of 5, while the risk of collateral damage is rated high, or 4 out of 5.
West Africa security
The security picture is calmer in West Africa. In Abidjan, 5,423 security personnel deployed for Independence Day celebrations on August 7. Temporary traffic restrictions were applied northwest of the port zone.
No disruptions to port operations have been reported, but road travel to the port and airport may experience delays until August 8.
