Effects are widespread and go far beyond the Middle EastIt is also clear that the impact is far from isolated to shipments with origin/destination to/from the Middle East. Sharp increase in oil prices drives up freight ratesThe escalation in the Middle East conflict has caused a sharp rise in global oil prices. Source: LoadstarWe are seeing a slow, but gradual resumption of cargo flights to and from the Middle East and we expect this development to continue in the days to come. According to Alphaliner, nearly 140 container vessels are trapped inside the Middle East Gulf, with MSC and CMA CGM being the most affected carriers, with 15 (109.000 TEU) and 14 (70.000 TEU) vessels, respectively, seeking shelter. Concretely, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has a direct impact on 10.7% of the global container shipping fleet based on available TEU capacity.

Source: The Guardian March 05, 2026 13:02 UTC