Gulf Tensions & Marine Insurance: What Happens in the Event of War? Not Just Higher Premiums

Gulf Tensions & Marine Insurance: Rising geopolitical tensions in the Gulf—particularly around the Strait of Hormuz—are significantly reshaping the landscape of marine insurance. The recent conflict triggered by US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities has sparked fears of Iran retaliating by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital oil and shipping corridors. For shipowners, this threat is more than just a strategic concern—it has direct financial consequences, especially on marine insurance policies. While insurance cover continues, premiums have soared, and the risk of suspended or cancelled cover is real.

Marine insurance, which is typically designed to safeguard vessels and cargo from risks like piracy, weather damage, and collisions, now faces the unprecedented challenge of dealing with state-sponsored threats and outright war. Traditionally, war risk insurance could be added as an extension, but current developments in the Gulf are testing the viability of that approach. The ongoing hostilities and political instability are prompting underwriters to reconsider their exposure. Insurers are either charging exorbitant war premiums or pulling out from offering cover altogether. Ships entering high-risk war zones might soon find themselves sailing uninsured.

The impact of this situation isn’t restricted to premium hikes. For vessels navigating through hotspots like the Strait of Hormuz, there’s also the potential for insurers to deny coverage for claims related to war risks. In such a scenario, even previously insured ships may find their cover revoked or not renewed. This could severely impact global trade, especially oil shipments, as shipowners become hesitant to accept voyages through these conflict zones. Let’s now explore who can apply for marine insurance under such conditions, the associated costs, procedures, and the benefits it can still offer amid war threats.

Marine Insurance During War: Overview

Who Can Apply?

Marine insurance policies during times of war can be availed by:

• Shipowners operating commercial vessels
• Logistics and freight companies
• Oil and gas companies
• Importers/exporters of goods transported via sea
• Charterers and shipping agents

Applicants must disclose:

• The ship’s route
• Type of cargo
• Ship registry
• Frequency of visits to conflict-prone areas

Many insurers require a war risk assessment before issuing cover, especially in volatile regions like the Gulf.

Also read: Insurance Penetration Rises, but Indians Still Financially Exposed: Suraksha Kavach Report 2025

Marine War Risk Insurance Fees

Premiums and Charges

• Standard Hull Insurance Premiums: ₹2,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 per annum (for commercial vessels)
• War Risk Premiums: Can range between 0.5% to 3% of vessel value, depending on proximity to conflict zones
• Additional Costs:
  • Reinstatement charges after crossing red-flag zones
  • Exclusion clauses for specific areas (Gulf of Oman, Strait of Hormuz)

Premiums are dynamic and based on:

• Political risk ratings by Lloyd’s Market Association
• Recent naval threats or incidents
• Daily intelligence updates from marine risk agencies

How to Use Marine Insurance Effectively in Conflict Zones

Strategies:

1. Route Planning: Avoid known hotspots or seek convoy protection.
2. Timely Notification: Inform insurers 48–72 hours before entering high-risk areas.
3. Onboard Risk Assessment: Use certified assessors to document security measures.
4. Claim Documentation: Maintain GPS logs, photographic evidence, and war-time communication records.
5. Diversify Coverage: Some companies split policies among different insurers to spread risk.

How to Apply for Marine Insurance in Conflict Times

Application Steps:

1. Select a Specialized Insurer: Choose providers with war risk underwriting capabilities (e.g., Lloyd’s of London syndicates, Indian insurers like New India Assurance).
2. Submit Detailed Voyage Plan: Include departure/arrival ports, waypoints, and backup plans.
3. Declare Vessel Type and Cargo: Be transparent to avoid disputes during claims.
4. Request a War Risk Quote: Insurers will evaluate based on exposure.
5. Undergo Safety Compliance: Ships may require audits for fire suppression, anti-piracy gear, and emergency drills.

Important Dates (As Per Current Developments)

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Premiums, benefits, and eligibility criteria for marine war risk insurance vary by provider and are subject to real-time geopolitical developments. Readers are advised to consult certified marine insurance brokers and legal professionals for tailored advice. The content is based on publicly available sources, including NDTV Profit. NDTV Profit: Marine Insurance in Gulf Tensions

Gulf Tensions & Marine Insurance Conclusion

In a world where geopolitical fault lines are increasingly unstable, the marine shipping industry faces new insurance challenges that go beyond traditional risk coverage. The current tension in the Gulf is not just about a price hike; it’s about a potential shutdown of global trade lanes, prompting insurers to pull back or charge prohibitively high premiums. War risk insurance is fast becoming a luxury and a necessity all at once.

Mariners and shipping companies must prepare for a future where policy cancellation or non-renewal becomes a common response from insurers. Proactive planning, accurate disclosures, and choosing insurers with proven war-zone expertise are more critical than ever before. It’s also essential for governments to step in with maritime protection measures and guarantee programs to support trade continuity.

Furthermore, global insurers must evolve, offering more flexible and situation-responsive policies. AI-based risk analytics, real-time alerts, and multi-insurer partnerships could make marine insurance in conflict zones more sustainable. This would help minimize disruptions while protecting critical global supply chains.

In closing, the future of marine insurance will be defined not just by what it covers, but by how fast it adapts to an increasingly volatile world. Stakeholders must stay informed, agile, and prepared to navigate the rising tide of risk.

Gulf Tensions & Marine Insurance FAQs

1. What is war risk marine insurance?

War risk marine insurance is a specialized form of marine insurance that provides coverage for loss or damage to vessels and cargo resulting from war-related events. These include state conflicts, missile attacks, civil unrest, terrorism, and governmental blockades. It is typically offered as an add-on to standard hull and cargo insurance.

2. Can marine insurance be denied during war?

Yes, insurers can refuse to provide or renew coverage for ships sailing through officially designated war zones. Existing policies may also contain exclusion clauses that void coverage if the vessel enters certain high-risk waters. Insurers rely on war risk area listings published by the Joint War Committee (JWC) to determine these zones.

3. Why are premiums rising in the Gulf region?

Premiums are increasing due to the heightened threat perception following US-Iran tensions. The Strait of Hormuz is a chokepoint for 20% of global oil, and any military activity threatens massive trade disruption. Insurers factor in likelihood of attacks, past incidents, and political instability when determining premiums.

4. Is marine insurance mandatory in international waters?

While not always legally required, marine insurance—especially protection and indemnity (P&I) and hull cover—is strongly recommended for international voyages. Many ports, charterers, and regulatory bodies insist on proof of insurance before allowing docking or offloading.

5. How can shippers protect themselves if insurance is revoked?

In cases where insurance is revoked or denied:

• Reroute the vessel to avoid conflict zones
• Apply for government-backed maritime risk cover
• Partner with multiple insurers for risk pooling
• Request guarantees or letters of indemnity from charterers

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