Global: Concerns raised as disruption from US-Israel attacks on Iran predicted to severely impact global supply chains
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disruption to air travel, following US-Israel military operations in Iran beginning 28 February 2026, has raised concerns regarding the impact the closure will have on supply chains reliant on the sea passage for exports.
Shipping lines have now suspended bookings for containers to be exported to eight countries across the Middle East, resulting in over 1,000 containers including food products, beverages and ready-made garments currently 'stuck'. While large numbers of containers are awaiting shipment at ports, containers that had been shipped prior to the attacks on Iran have been halted. No new export orders are being placed. Meanwhile, cancelled flights from the Middle East has led to air shipments 'piling up' at airports.
This has led to concerns regarding the impact the suspension of exports will have on those across the supply chain, including fears of factory closures, unpaid wages, and the 'burden of the additional cost' that may be placed on suppliers and workers, amid attempts to bypass the closure with higher-cost transport, as well as increased oil prices.