Major global shipping companies Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have said their vessels are continuing to sail through the Strait of Hormuz, even after U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities raised tensions in the region.
A.P. Moller–Maersk confirmed on Sunday that its container ships are still operating in the area. The Danish shipping company said it is keeping a close watch on the security situation for each vessel and is prepared to make changes if needed.
“We will continuously monitor the security risk to our specific vessels in the region and are ready to take operational actions as needed,” the company said in a statement.
Maersk also mentioned that it is open to re-evaluating its decision based on any new information or developments that could affect the safety of its crew or ships.
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow but critical sea route that connects the Persian Gulf with global shipping lanes. It handles about one-fifth of all crude oil transported by sea, making it a vital passage for the global economy, energy supplies, and freight movement.
German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd also confirmed on Sunday that its ships are currently sailing through the Strait. A company spokesperson stated that the situation is being carefully observed and could change quickly if conditions demand it.
“We are still sailing through the Strait of Hormuz, but of course the situation can change within a very short time,” the spokesperson said.
Both companies stated that they are ready to respond swiftly to any changes in risk levels and will continue monitoring the situation closely.
Reference: Reuters
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