Iran Launches Hormuz Shipping Authority
20, May 2026
Iran has launched the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to manage Strait of Hormuz traffic, warning that unapproved vessel transit may be illegal.
Maritime
Panama Canal Congestion Rises Before June Lock Works
19, May 2026
Panama Canal congestion is rising ahead of June lock maintenance, with reduced transit slots expected to add pressure to shipping schedules and freight costs.
Chinese-Owned Vessel Hit in Odesa Ahead of Putin China Visit
19, May 2026
A Chinese-owned vessel was hit during a Russian drone strike on Odesa, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, days before Vladimir Putin’s planned state visit to Beijing.
Norway Joins Baltic Sea Strategy
19, May 2026
Norway joins the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region, expanding cooperation on maritime safety, surveillance, security and regional resilience.
Hapag-Lloyd Expands Women at Sea
19, May 2026
Hapag-Lloyd has launched the Shefarer Program to increase women’s participation at sea, with female cadets to make up at least 20% of new trainee intakes.
Iran Introduces Bitcoin Insurance for Hormuz Shipping
19, May 2026
Iran has introduced a Bitcoin-settled insurance service for domestic ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz as Tehran moves to formalize control over vessel traffic and related fees.
USCGC Storis Returns from Bering Sea Patrol
18, May 2026
USCGC Storis returned to Seattle after a 36-day Bering Sea deployment focused on readiness, icebreaking tests and Arctic operations.
IEA Warns Hormuz Crisis May Push Global Oil Demand Into Contraction
14, May 2026
The IEA warned that disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could push global oil demand into contraction in 2026 as supply losses and inventory declines accelerate.
Boskalis Dredges Harwich Berth for Felixstowe Cargo
12, May 2026
Boskalis has mobilized Shoalway, Strandway and Magnor at Harwich Haven to maintain berth depth for large container vessels serving the Port of Felixstowe.
