Ship movements have largely stalled as owners, carriers, and insurers evaluate the risks of navigating the Strait of Hormuz following recent U.S. And Israeli attacks in Iran, according to a briefing from Inchcape Shipping Services reported on March 9, 2026.
While many Gulf ports are effectively cut off, alternative shipping routes are being utilized. The UAE is redirecting exports overland from Sharjah to the Khor Fakkan Container Terminal (KCT) on the Gulf of Oman, avoiding cross-border transit complexities and reducing customs documentation, Inchcape Shipping reported. Services at the Fujairah and Khor Fakkan anchorages continue uninterrupted as of March 9th.
Oman presents numerous port options that bypass the Strait of Hormuz, including Port Sultan Qaboos, Muscat, Mina Al Fahal, Port of Sohar, Qalhat LNG Terminal – Sur, OMIFCO Terminal – Sur, Port of Salalah, Port of Duqm, and Asyad Drydock – Duqm. However, several Omani ports have experienced drone attacks, despite remaining operational.
The situation is exacerbating concerns about liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies, with alternatives to Gulf shipments proving scarce, as noted by The Economist and Prasanna Viswanathan on social media platforms. The Economist reported on March 11, 2026, that alternatives to Gulf supplies are scarce.
According to energy specialist Vortexa, the primary alternative to the Strait of Hormuz for Gulf crude oil exports is the East-West route. However, the potential for a significant disruption to Gulf oil supplies—estimated at 15 million barrels per day—has raised the possibility of oil prices reaching $150 per barrel, potentially leading to demand destruction, according to a report from Business Insider. Alternative supply sources are insufficient to offset the potential loss of Gulf production.
