Ships sailing in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf are affected by disrupted navigation signals. According to the Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC), which monitors maritime security in the region, these disruptions originate from the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas.
The JMIC warns shipping not to rely entirely on GPS systems when navigating these waters. Instead, it recommends using radar, coastal visual landmarks and other traditional means of navigation.
The maritime threat is also heightened, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. This is a crucial passage for global trade. Thousands of container ships pass through here every year. The sea route is currently still open for commercial shipping, but there are reports of electronic disruptions coming from the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas. Although there is media speculation about a possible blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, there is currently no confirmation of this. JMIC stresses that shipping companies should be cautious about unconfirmed reports.
According to Polymarket data, the probability of Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz has almost doubled (47%) compared to a few weeks ago. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's major maritime bottlenecks: up to 21 million barrels of oil and a significant proportion of global LNG exports pass through here every day. A closure would drive up oil prices sharply and have global economic consequences.
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A container ship sailing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Diplomatic deadlock and threat of escalation
Tensions rose further after Israel issued an ultimatum to both Iran and the US to reach a new nuclear deal by 15 June. With planned talks between the US and Iran cancelled, the risk of a wider military conflict has increased. Meanwhile, the international community is calling for calm and diplomacy.
Military operations began on 13 June and included missile strikes and drone activity. Since then, there have been reports of significant electronic disruption in the region, which may affect ships' navigation and communication systems.
Implications for the maritime sector
While no immediate threat to commercial shipping has been identified at present, JMIC warns that the situation could change quickly. Scenarios that could lead to reassessment include:
- The use of ballistic or cruise missiles near maritime bottlenecks.
- Targeted attacks on Western or affiliated commercial vessels.
- Expansion of the conflict into coastal areas or port infrastructure.
Ship owners and charterers are advised to conduct thorough risk assessments before planning operations in the Arabian Gulf. Ships are also advised to be prepared for failures in GPS and navigation equipment, possibly caused by jamming and spoofing. Alternative navigation methods, such as radar and visual observations, are essential.
Although no official naval escorts have yet been announced, ships are advised to be ready for sudden escalations.
Source: JMIC