The Middle East conflict: Frequently Asked Questions in Marine Insurance P&I Club News 21/03/2026 As the conflict in the Middle East continues, shipowners and operators are facing a rapidly changing risk picture. This FAQ brings together the key questions we are hearing from Members and clients, offering clear, practical guidance in an increasingly uncertain environment. While we have made every effort to provide comprehensive answers, many situations are fact-specific, and outcomes may vary on a case-by-case basis and depending on the terms of the specific contracts which apply. For further details, clients are encouraged to reach out to their dedicated Gard claims handler or underwriter. Crew and Vessel Safety Q. What specific emergencies should crews operating in the Persian Gulf and surrounding regions be prepared for? A. Crews operating within the Persian Gulf and its surrounding waters must be prepared for a range of kinetic and electronic threats. Primary kinetic threats include fire, explosions, and severe structural damage (which can result in flooding and listing) resulting from strikes by missiles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs). Vessels face significant navigational risks, including potential collisions or grounding caused by GNSS interference and AIS disruption. In the event of an incident, crews must be equipped to manage medical emergencies, deal with unexploded ordnance, and execute orderly ship abandonment procedures. Preparedness hinges on drills, equipment readiness, reliable intelligence, clear crisis procedures and active support from the shore management. Q. How should owners and operators support crew welfare during the ongoing conflict in the Middle East? A. Past periods of heightened maritime threat have shown that seafarers can feel isolated and overlooked, even when substantial efforts are being made ashore to manage risk and provide support. Over time, this perception of being “on their own” at sea can have serious consequences for mental wellbeing. Supporting crew welfare starts with recognizing that heightened alertness, anxiety, sleep disturbance, irritability, and physical stress responses are normal reactions to operating in a conflict zone. While external risk cannot always be eliminated, a sense of safety can still be strengthened through clear leadership, reliable information, and visible organizational support. How companies respond during this period will have lasting effects on trust, morale, and longterm resilience. Q. What role does communication play in maintaining crew safety and wellbeing in conflict zones? A. Communication is the critical foundation for crew safety and wellbeing. Information provided to crews must be clear, factual, and proportionate, focusing on the known situation, the vessel’s status, and the protective measures in place. It is essential to avoid speculation and unnecessary detail, as uncertainty is a primary driver of fear. Establishing a predictable communication rhythm, particularly during the early stages of a crisis, reassures the crew that the situation remains under active oversight and reduces their reliance on external media reporting. Furthermore, communication must be two-way; crew members should feel comfortable raising concerns and asking questions, trusting that these will be acknowledged even if immediate solutions are not available. Proactive outreach from shore-based teams is vital, as it removes the burden of initiati