Incident Middle East Strait of Hormuz · 5 March 2026
High Risk Area designation affecting Strait of Hormuz shipping – Strait of Hormuz – 5 March 2026
What happened
The Norwegian Seafarers’ Union circulated an advisory stating the ITF has designated the Strait of Hormuz and adjacent waters as a High Risk Area. The advisory stated the designation includes the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman.
According to the advisory, the High Risk Area classification activates provisions negotiated through the IBF. These provisions include:
- a bonus equivalent to basic wage for the duration of passage through the designated area
- doubled compensation provisions for death or disability
- the right for seafarers to decline assignments in the area without penalty, with repatriation at company expense and compensation equivalent to two months of basic wages if that option is exercised
The advisory also recommended enhanced onboard security measures comparable to elevated International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) protocols. Union representatives advised seafarers to review their Collective Bargaining Agreements or consult shipboard human resources personnel regarding eligibility.
Injuries and casualties
- Fatalities: None reported
- Injuries: None reported
- Passengers Affected: Not specified
Emergency response
- Not specified
- Not specified
- Not specified
Investigation
No investigation was reported in the source.
- Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA): Not specified
- Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB): Not specified
Operator response
Not specified
Conclusion
The advisory reported that the ITF High Risk Area designation applies to the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman, and that IBF provisions may apply to seafarers transiting the area. No vessel-specific incident details, emergency response actions, or casualties were included in the source.