At least 25 German ships stranded in Gulf amid Middle East tensions

approximately 7,000 passengers, are currently stranded in Gulf waters and unable to transit the Strait of Hormuz due to escalating security concerns, Germany’s shipowners’ association (VDR) said on Monday

The VDR did not disclose the names of the affected companies, but noted that shipping operators, including Dertour and TUI Cruises, have already suspended or adjusted travel plans in the Middle East following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions

According to the association, preliminary reports suggest attacks on civilian vessels near the Strait of Hormuz and adjacent waters off Oman’s coast have caused injuries and deaths, though no German ships or seafarers have been directly affected so far. There is currently no physical blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, with no warships, mines, or systematic controls preventing passage. Shipping companies are holding ongoing crisis meetings and exploring alternative routes, including around the Cape of Good Hope where feasible. The VDR called on international policymakers and security authorities to take urgent measures to safeguard civilian shipping, seafarers, and passengers

The development underscores growing disruptions in one of the world’s busiest maritime chokepoints as tensions between Iran, Israel, and the U.S. continue to escalate, raising concerns over global trade and passenger safety