France’s CMA CGM: Vessels in the Persian Gulf told to take shelter immediately and passage through the Suez Canal suspended

France’s CMA CGM: Vessels in the Persian Gulf told to take shelter immediately and passage through the Suez Canal suspended

CMA CGM Suspends Suez Canal Operations Amid Escalating Gulf Tensions

France’s CMA CGM SA, the world’s third-largest container shipping company, announced the immediate suspension of vessel passage through the Suez Canal and ordered ships in the Persian Gulf to seek shelter. The decision follows heightened regional tensions amid escalating military activity between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The company stated that affected vessels will be rerouted via the Cape of Good Hope, adding significant distance and time to voyages. Customers will be notified of alternative port arrangements.

The Suez Canal Authority did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global oil transit route—has also been disrupted. Hapag-Lloyd, the fifth-largest container carrier, suspended transits through the strait, which handles approximately 20% of global liquid oil consumption. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards reportedly warned ships that the strait is “basically closed,” according to Iran’s Tasnim news agency.

The U.S. and EU have issued safety advisories for commercial vessels, with the EU’s naval mission confirming Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps broadcasts warning of a blockade. Shipping association BIMCO advised vessels with U.S. or Israeli affiliations to avoid the region due to targeting risks.

The rerouting of tankers and container ships has already caused operational delays. Marine traffic data shows a sharp decline in vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, with many oil tankers turning back or halting operations. Analysts note that diversions around Africa add thousands of nautical miles to shipping routes, increasing fuel costs and delivery times.

Other major carriers, including A.P. Møller-Maersk, have also issued delay warnings. The disruptions compound existing supply chain challenges, with global trade facing further strain as conflicts in the region persist.

As military activity continues, the long-term impact on shipping routes and energy markets remains uncertain, with stakeholders monitoring developments closely.