Dear Valued Clients

We would like to bring to your attention an important update that will affect shipments transiting certain Middle Eastern waters.

Following recent geopolitical developments involving Iran and surrounding territories, underwriters across the global marine insurance market have issued notices advising cancellation of War, Strikes, Riots and Civil Commotions (War Risks) cover under current marine cargo policies.

 

In accordance with the policy cancellation clause, a 7-day notice has been given with the cancellation taking effect at 00:00 GMT on 12 March 2026 and applies to the following territories:

• Iran and Iranian waters (including coastal waters up to 12 nautical miles offshore)
• The Persian/Arabian Gulf and adjacent waters
• The Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and defined areas of the Indian Ocean

Please refer to the map of the affected areas.

This notice means that standard marine policies may no longer automatically cover war risks for shipments passing  through these regions after the effective date. However, underwriters are currently offering the option to reinstate 

Marine War cover for these regions subject to an additional premium and prior arrangement.

If you have cargo currently moving through, or scheduled to transit any of the regions listed above, please contact your insurer direct to arrange quotations and reinstatement of war cover where required.

Our team is closely monitoring developments and remains available to assist in ensuring your shipments remain appropriately insured.