SEKO Worldwide LLC

03/30/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/30/2026 11:30

Client Advisory: Ocean Freight Operations Impacted by Middle East Disruptions - Updated March 30

WHAT'S THE LATEST

Update as of March 30: Ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to significantly disrupt global ocean freight operations. The Houthi movement has formally declared its intent to conduct military action in the Red Sea against any nation supporting U.S. and Israel-aligned operations involving Palestine, Lebanon, Iraq, or Iran. This announcement increases security risks for maritime traffic throughout the Red Sea and broader Middle East corridor.

SEKO continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as new information becomes available.

WHAT WE KNOW

Port of Salalah

  • The Port of Salalah was targeted by drone strikes, resulting in minor injuries to port personnel and damage to port-side infrastructure.
  • A Hapag-Lloyd vessel berthed at the time was not damaged.
  • As of 3/30, port authorities have confirmed the closure will be extended for at least 48 hours, with vessels already en route expected to face operational delays.

Strait of Hormuz

  • Several vessels exiting the Persian Gulf are moving toward the Strait of Hormuz.
  • None of the observed outbound vessels appear to be container ships at this time.
  • Separately, 3-4 container vessels have reportedly attempted to transit the strait, but were forced to abort due to the current security environment.

SEKO'S GUIDANCE

As risk levels for shipping in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Strait of Hormuz remain elevated, SEKO recommends that shippers:

  • Plan for vessel diversions and extended transit times as evolving conditions may continue to drive schedule disruptions, port congestion, and diversions.
  • Closely monitor military advisories, maritime security alerts, and port authority statements over the next several days.
  • Engage SEKO immediately for contingency options, cost estimates, and routing alternatives.

The situation remains highly dynamic, and SEKO will continue issuing updates as developments occur.

If you have questions, please reach out to your SEKO representative, or email us at [email protected].

SEKO Worldwide LLC published this content on March 30, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on March 30, 2026 at 17:30 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]