The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) has released its semi-annual maritime security advisory for American-flagged commercial vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, specifically the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman. This directive is in effect from February 9 to August 8, 2026, and warns that vessels face longstanding threats from Iranian forces, which may include obstruction, boarding, detention, or seizure. The advisory references a recent incident that occurred on February 3, highlighting ongoing concerns about maritime safety in this strategically significant region.

As part of the advisory, MARAD recommends that vessels maintain a maximum safe distance from Iranian territorial waters without compromising navigational safety. For vessels transiting eastward through the Strait of Hormuz, it is advised to take routes closer to Omani waters to mitigate risks. The directive emphasizes the importance of adhering to international legal standards, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, suggesting that captains should refuse boarding by unauthorized personnel unless safety conditions allow otherwise.

The implications of this advisory are significant for shipping operations in the region, as heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran continue to pose challenges for maritime security. This warning may lead to increased insurance costs and logistical planning for shipping companies, as they adapt to the changing dynamics of transits through critical chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. The international maritime community will closely monitor developments, given the area's importance for global oil supply routes and geopolitical stability.