1. BIMCO: No short-term return to Persian Gulf
BIMCO has warned that there is unlikely to be a short-term return of normal shipping operations in the Persian Gulf. Ongoing geopolitical tensions and security risks continue to deter shipowners from resuming regular routes in the region.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/blog/bimco-no-short-term-return-to-persian-gulf
.
2. Burning ships, smoke and the limits of decarbonisation
Recent incidents involving burning vessels have highlighted the operational and safety challenges linked to decarbonisation efforts in shipping. The article argues that environmental ambitions are increasingly colliding with real-world risks and technological limitations.
https://splash247.com/burning-ships-smoke-and-the-limits-of-decarbonisation/
.
3. Ethanol enters ore trades as Vale signs for Shandong VLOC newbuilds
Vale has taken a step towards alternative fuels by incorporating ethanol into its ore transportation strategy. The move is linked to new VLOC newbuildings being constructed in Shandong, marking a shift in fuel experimentation within bulk shipping.
https://splash247.com/ethanol-enters-ore-trades-as-vale-signs-for-shandong-vloc-newbuilds/
.
4. Landlocked Switzerland pushes for seat at Europe’s port alliance table
Switzerland is seeking a more formal role within European port alliances despite having no direct access to the sea. The country argues that its economic and logistics interests justify participation in maritime decision-making frameworks.
https://splash247.com/landlocked-switzerland-pushes-for-seat-at-europes-port-alliance-table/
.
5. Tankers exit Gulf via Strait of Hormuz as US-Iran talks begin
Oil tankers have begun leaving the Gulf region through the Strait of Hormuz amid the start of diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran. The movement reflects cautious optimism but also continued uncertainty among ship operators.
https://gcaptain.com/tankers-exit-gulf-via-strait-of-hormuz-as-us-iran-talks-begin/
.
6. UK pauses its plan to cede Chagos Islands after US opposition
The United Kingdom has paused its plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands following opposition from the United States. Strategic military considerations have played a key role in delaying the proposed agreement.
https://gcaptain.com/uk-pauses-its-plan-to-cede-chagos-islands-after-us-opposition/
.
7. US military setting conditions to clear mines from Strait of Hormuz
The US military is preparing operational conditions for potential mine-clearing activities in the Strait of Hormuz. The effort reflects growing concern over maritime security and the risk of disruption to global energy flows.
https://gcaptain.com/us-military-setting-conditions-to-clear-mines-from-strait-of-hormuz/
.
8. Estonia says detaining Russia’s tankers in Baltic Sea is too risky
Estonia has stated that detaining Russian tankers in the Baltic Sea would pose excessive security risks. Authorities highlighted the potential for escalation and operational hazards in such enforcement actions.
https://gcaptain.com/estonia-says-detaining-russias-tankers-in-baltic-sea-is-too-risky/
.
9. Toll wars and diverging agendas cloud Hormuz outlook
Conflicting interests and emerging toll disputes are complicating the outlook for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The article notes that fragmented political agendas are adding further uncertainty to an already volatile corridor.
https://splash247.com/toll-wars-and-diverging-agendas-cloud-hormuz-outlook/
.
10. Jan De Nul launches world’s largest sustainable cable laying vessels
Jan De Nul has launched what are described as the world’s largest sustainable cable-laying vessels. The ships are designed to support offshore energy infrastructure while reducing environmental impact.







