Norwegian shipowners hold back despite US–Iran ceasefire signals

A tentative two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran has yet to restore confidence among global shipping operators, with Norwegian shipowners saying conditions remain too uncertain to resume transits through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Norwegian Shipowners' Association (NSA), which represents around 130 companies operating approximately 1,500 vessels worldwide, said on Wednesday that the security situation in the Gulf continues to lack clarity. Shipowners are seeking further information before restarting operations in the region, Reuters reports. 

"We note the signals of a ceasefire, but the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains unresolved and unpredictable," NSA Chief Executive Knut Arild Hareide said in a statement.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, and ongoing disruptions have forced shipping companies to suspend voyages, reroute cargo, and adopt costly alternatives to maintain trade flows across the Gulf.

"It is not yet clear under what conditions safe transit can be carried out. Shipowners are assessing the situation and will not resume ⁠transits until there is real security for safe passage," Hareide added.

Shipping giant Maersk echoed similar concerns earlier on April 8, stating that the ceasefire announcement had not provided sufficient assurance to resume normal operations in the area.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Macron said that around 15 countries are preparing efforts to help facilitate the safe resumption of maritime traffic through the strait.

By Sabina Mammadli