The Strait of Hormuz region became a flashpoint on Sunday after US-Israeli strikes on Iran under Operation Epic Fury triggered electronic warfare and multiple ‘attacks’ on ships along one of the world’s most critical energy waterways, reports showed.
The sudden escalation followed a warning on February 28 from US maritime authorities urging commercial ships to avoid strategic waterways if possible, including the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, citing increased security risks.
“It is recommended that vessels stay out of this area if possible,” the advisory warned.
“Ships in the Persian Gulf are under threat from Iranian attacks,” Larsen said.
On March 1, 2026, a Navy ship is seen sailing in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway through which much of the world’s oil and gas production flows. (Sahar AL ATTAR/AFP via Getty Images)
“To protect themselves, most ships stay as far away from Iran as possible,” he added, before describing how ships “try to depart from the Persian Gulf to escape the threat.”
The Maritime trading operations in the United Kingdom (UKMTO) and regional authorities on Sunday reported several maritime incidents classified as ‘attacks’.
One ship west of Sharjah, UAE, was rocked by an explosion from an unknown projectile that detonated close alongside, and another tanker north of Muscat, Oman, was struck above the waterline, starting a fire that was later brought under control, according to records.
A third ship northwest of Mina Saqr, UAE, was also hit by a projectile that caused a fire on board, the organization said.
The physical threats are exacerbated by a wave of electronic warfare involving maritime intelligence services Windward reporting widespread interference of GPS and Automatic Identification System (AIS), affecting more than 1,000 vessels.
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A map showing the Strait of Hormuz and Iran. (Reuters)
Windward cited widespread shipping disruption near the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, with ships incorrectly appearing at airports, a nuclear power plant and inland locations.
Several new AIS jam clusters were also identified in Emirati, Qatar, Omani and Iranian waters, Windward said.
Major shipping company Maersk announced it would divert some services from the region, citing crew and cargo safety.
About 20% of global oil and gas exports pass through the Strait, and traffic has already thinned out, with some tankers reversing course or switching off AIS signals.
Industry groups also warned of Houthi retaliation in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, while analysts warned that Iran could seize ships linked to US or Israeli interests.
“The Houthis have threatened to resume attacks on ships in the Red Sea, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden,” Larsen explained.
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The Strait of Hormuz is facing increased security risks after US-Israeli attacks caused maritime incidents, causing shipping companies to divert their ships.
Ships with business ties to U.S. or Israeli interests are considered more likely targets, although others could be hit intentionally or accidentally, he said.
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Tanker Owners Association Intertanko also warned members that “the Houthis are expected to respond and resume attacks on shipping,” although immediate intelligence remained unclear.
“There are no signs of Iranian attempts to close the Strait with naval mines or mines, although this may change in the short term,” Larsen added before confirming that GPS interference “has increased significantly after the start of hostilities.”
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