The Strait of Hormuz, a vital global trade route for oil, gas, and consumer goods, is experiencing massive disruption following Iran's blockade. German shipping line Hapag-Lloyd has multiple vessels stuck in the region, with crews reporting drone sightings, GPS jamming, and mounting safety risks.

Rerouting cargo via land is costly and inefficient, driving up fuel, storage, and insurance expenses. With oil and gas exports stalled, global energy prices are rising, while goods become more expensive across the Gulf region. Hapag-Lloyd's crisis team warns that US proposals for military escorts are unrealistic given the sheer density of traffic through the strait each day.