In this episode, we examine the impact of significant disruptions in shipping operations due to the escalating conflict in the Gulf region.

Seatrade Maritime News Editor Marcus Hand speaks with maritime lawyer Menelaus Kouzoupis, Partner with Stephenson Harwood, who provides insights into the legal implications for shipowners navigating these turbulent times. From the de facto closure of the Straits of Hormuz to the skyrocketing war risk insurance premiums, this discussion sheds light on the complex challenges faced by the shipping industry amidst geopolitical tensions.

The conversation covers

1. The current situation
2. Is the Strait of Hormuz closed?
3. The impact on insurance premiums
4. Vessels stranded in the Gulf – who pays?
5. Can a shipowner refuse to sail?
6. The risks to vessels stranded in the region
7. The difficult situation faced by crew
8. The possibility of naval escorts

Listen now to hear more about all of these crucial topics

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For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com.

Connect with Marcus Hand, Editor of Seatrade Maritime News:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

Panama port battle, Hapag-Lloyd buys Zim, and VLCCs go bananas.

These are just some of the stories that are covered in the latest episode of Maritime in Minutes.

Seatrade Maritime News’ Marcus Hand and Gary Howard reflect on the month of February, with their highlights from the news in maritime and shipping, from the biggest stories to those that simply piqued their interest.

Listeners please note this episode was recorded the day prior to the US/Israel attack on Iran on 28 February

Hear more about:

Panama declares CK Hutchison’s Panama Ports concession unconstitutional

CK Hutchison: Panama terminal takeover ‘unlawful’, ceases operations

Six-year jail sentence for Solong captain

Container lines’ Red Sea mixed messages confuse shippers

SeaLead plummets in shipping line rankings

Hapag-Lloyd’s acquisition of Zim an era defining moment

Trump’s Maritime Action Plan floats foreign built vessel US port fee

Gemini shines as container line punctuality plummets in 2026

Red hot VLCC market hits new highs amid US – Iran tensions

Reward offered for ‘missing’ dark fleet VLCC

Listen to the full episode now

Red Sea hokey-kokey, the top risk for shipping businesses in 2026, and a booming dark fleet market.

These are just some of the stories that are covered in the latest episode of Maritime in Minutes.

Seatrade Maritime News’ Marcus Hand and Gary Howard reflect on the month of January, with their highlights from the news in maritime and shipping, from the biggest stories to those that simply piqued their interest.

Hear more about:

IMO rules understate benefits of utilising captured carbon, says GCMD

Singapore report highlights crew fatigue in Hafnia Nile and Ceres I collision

Shipping sees regulatory changes as biggest risk to business in 2026

Asian shipping execs negative on IMO Net Zero Framework prospects

CMA CGM reverts services to Cape of Good Hope

Two dead, 15 rescued from capsized bulker off Philippines

Repeat orders mark wind propulsion success stories

Dark fleet ship-to-ship transfers off Malaysia more than double

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to ensure you don't miss our latest uploads.

For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com

Connect with Marcus Hand:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Connect with Gary Howard:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaryLeeHoward
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyleehoward/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn