The security situation in the Persian Gulf remains tense. According to the German Navy Shipping Center, 33 merchant ships have been attacked since the start of the war. Ships with a German connection are also affected.
The German Navy Shipping Center (GNSC) continues to classify the maritime risk in the Persian Gulf and adjacent sea areas as “Critical”. The situation center cites the active US naval blockade of Iranian ports and coastal waters, continued attacks on merchant ships, potential mine hazards in the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing AIS and GPS jamming as the reasons for this.
33 merchant ships attacked
According to the GNSC, 33 merchant ships have been attacked since the beginning of the war, some of them with severe damage. Since the last situation report on April 30, 4 more attacks have occurred. The tanker “Barakah”, the bulk carrier “Minoan Falcon”, the tanker “JV Innovation” and the container ship “CMA CGM San Antonio” were affected. Several people were injured on the latter, some of them seriously. The ship is listed in the situation report with a German reference.
According to AIS data and consultations with shipping companies, there are a total of around 117 ships with a German connection in the region in question, 47 of which are in the Persian Gulf. According to the GNSC, 3 ships with a German connection have been attacked so far.
Additional uncertainty arises from new Iranian requirements for passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has announced a “Persian Gulf Strait Authority”, which is to inform ships and shipping companies about rules for a possible passage. Details are not yet known. In addition, a new Iranian no-transit zone has been published, the exact boundaries of which are still unclear according to the GNSC.
The USA had announced a “Maritime Freedom Construct” for safe passages through the Strait of Hormuz. The associated operation “Project Freedom” was suspended again after less than 36 hours. Two ships had previously been escorted. US warships had to fend off Iranian attacks with missiles, drones and speedboats.
Minehunting boats move to the Mediterranean
According to the situation report, Germany is preparing for possible participation in a multinational operation. The minehunting boat “Fulda” is moving to the Mediterranean, while the tender “Mosel” is joining the NATO mine countermeasures group “SNMCMG2”. According to the GNSC, German participation would only be possible with a cessation of hostilities, a German parliamentary mandate and within the framework of international law.
The port situation also remains tense. A fire broke out in Fujairah on May 4 following an Iranian attack. Although the ports of Fujairah and Chaur Fakkan are largely operating normally, waiting times of 3 to 4 weeks are reported for certain types of ships. Off Fujairah, a navigation warning also warns of massive GPS disruptions.
