According to a Reuters report from October 14, Iran is adopting a changed tactic against shipping in the Strait of Hormuz region. The news agency is citing two senior Iranian representatives and a US military representative, who are not named.
The report describes, among other things, observers on small boats and a possible expansion of operations into the Gulf of Oman. Reuters also cites the Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC), led by the US Navy. This center had classified the threat to commercial vessels as serious. (Source: Reuters republication)
For logistics, one thing in particular is clear: a confirmed transport still requires an assessment of the specific voyage. The political intent described in the report is no guarantee of which route an individual vessel can still take.
Shippers should inquire with the shipowner about current cargo acceptance, planned route, and possible security surcharges. In addition, there are questions regarding insurance and how to handle potential short-term disruptions. Particularly for firm delivery deadlines, the customer must understand which portion of the transit time remains uncertain. Alternative routes should only be booked after reviewing costs, capacity, and actual benefit. A simple rerouting does not solve the same problem for every departure port.