13th June 2026 – 19th June 2026
LOCAL NEWS
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS
- US-Iran reach agreement leading to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz
- US-Iran Ceasefire Agreed but Risks to Shipping Remain
Following several months of conflict, escalating tensions, and significant economic and humanitarian consequences, on Wednesday, 17th June 2026 the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran announced the conclusion of a peace agreement, referred to as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, which amounts to a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and a deal to establish a framework for longer-term diplomatic engagement.
Both countries later confirmed the memo had been signed electronically on Wednesday, 17th June 2026, and was now in effect. On that day, a senior US administration official read out the 14-point document, which, sets out a series of commitments addressing security, maritime access, sanctions relief, economic reconstruction, nuclear non-proliferation, and the gradual normalization of relations between the parties. Among its key provisions are the implementation of a permanent ceasefire, the restoration of commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, the easing of sanctions, the facilitation of Iranian oil exports, and the establishment of a mechanism to monitor compliance with the agreement.
All the 14 points of the MOU can be read in the article below:
US-Iran memorandum of understanding in full
“This is fundamentally an agreement that allows us to open the Strait of Hormuz immediately, commit the Iranians to destroying the nuclear dust, and then gives us a dial where if the Iranians dial up their good behavior, we respond by dialing up the kind of economic and sanctions relief that can make them a more prosperous country,” the senior US official said.
Following the signing of the MOU, on Thursday, 18th June 2026, the U.S. announced that it's lifting the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to let ships pass through.
Iran, for its part, has committed to letting oil tankers move safely through the Strait of Hormuz, where roughly 20% of the world's oil transited before the war began. The agreement, states that Iran will allow commercial vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz "with no charge for 60 days only," after which "future administration and maritime services" will be determined by Iran along with Oman and other Persian Gulf states. Iranian officials have suggested they may impose "service fees" on ships, which industry analysts call legally questionable on an international waterway.
There is no doubt that the one of the most important commitments of this agreement is to restore the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is of particular significance. The agreement envisages the gradual resumption of shipping traffic and cooperation with regional stakeholders regarding the future management and security of this strategically important waterway. While further clarification and implementation measures are expected, the agreement represents an important step towards reducing regional instability and supporting the safe movement of international trade. For the shipping industry, the restoration of navigational access through the Strait of Hormuz is expected to enhance the safety and security of vessels and seafarers while reinforcing the principle of freedom of navigation under international law.
- IMO Secretary-General welcomes US-Iran agreement
On the 15th June 2026, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Dominguez welcomed with great satisfaction the peace agreement reached between the parties in the conflict affecting the Strait of Hormuz. According to Mr. Domiguez, the ceasefire agreement has created the conditions necessary for IMO to advance its planned operation for the evacuation of thousands of seafarers who remain stranded in the affected region. In coordination with Member States and relevant partners, the IMO has commenced preparations aimed at ensuring that any evacuation operation is conducted in a safe, orderly, and effective manner.
While practical implementation will require time to establish the necessary safety, security, and operational arrangements, the IMO has reiterated its commitment to promoting maritime safety and security, protecting the welfare of seafarers, safeguarding freedom of navigation, and supporting the uninterrupted flow of international maritime trade.
Nevertheless, uncertainty remains regarding the full restoration of normal shipping and energy trade operations. Several industry stakeholders, including BIMCO, have expressed concerns that significant safety, security, and operational challenges continue to pose risks to the resumption of unrestricted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Lack of details remain a concern in the Strait of Hormuz
On the 18th June 2026, BIMCO pointed out that the Maritime Industry is waiting for clarification and details relating to how a full resumption of traffic through the strait will be managed safely. BIMCO has cautioned that, while Iran and the US have now agreed to permit transits through the Strait of Hormuz, significant safety and security risks still persist, including reports of maritime mines in parts of the central Strait, which continue to restrict navigation to inshore traffic lanes adjacent to Oman and Iran. In addition, the absence of clear guidance regarding vessel routing, traffic management, reporting procedures, security measures, and emergency response arrangements continues to create uncertainty for shipowners and operators. The risk of congestion, navigational incidents, and operational disruption therefore remains elevated. According to BIMCO, the agreement is a welcome development, however, it does not in itself ensure the safe resumption of commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Significant safety and security concerns remain,
Against this backdrop, shipowners are advised to continue undertaking voyage-specific risk assessments and to closely monitor developments. BIMCO has indicated that the establishment of an international coordination mechanism will be essential to facilitate the safe and orderly resumption of traffic through the Strait. Although shipping activity may gradually return to pre-conflict levels, the recovery of cargo volumes is expected to be slower due to damage sustained by key regional energy infrastructure, including facilities in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
- Remaining Threats and Considerations for Shipowners
Despite claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that the Strait of Hormuz has reopened under the terms of an agreement reached with Iran, shipping industry sources and analysts remain cautious about the outlook for vessel traffic through the strategic waterway. Due to the persisting uncertainty, elevated war-risk exposure is expected to continue, with insurers unlikely to materially reduce premiums.
According to experts like Windward, key threats include the potential breakdown or inconsistent application of the ceasefire framework, residual security risks linked to asymmetric or unauthorised actions by affiliated actors, and the possibility of mines or unexploded ordnance affecting navigational safety. Additional risks stem from electronic interference, including GNSS disruption and AIS anomalies, as well as congestion hazards arising from a rapid concentration of vessel movements in restricted sea space.
- Operational Guidance for Shipowners
Due to the prevailing risk environment, shipowners and operators are advised to adopt a cautious and evidence-based approach when considering re-entry into the region. Transit decisions should remain subject to continuous review of security conditions, insurance availability and updated guidance issued by relevant authorities and industry bodies.
Before undertaking any voyage through the Strait of Hormuz, operators should ensure that:
- War-risk insurance terms are confirmed, valid, and applicable for the intended transit
- Routing guidance and traffic separation schemes are fully understood and reflect the latest updates
- Port acceptance and operational readiness are confirmed at both loading and discharge ports
- Charterparty obligations, including exposure to delay, deviation, or related liabilities, are assessed
- The latest security advisories issued by UKMTO and MSCHOA/MSCIO are reviewed and incorporated into voyage planning
- During transit, enhanced operational vigilance should be maintained, including continuous reporting to relevant maritime security organisations, strict adherence to designated routes, reinforced bridge watchkeeping procedures, and preparedness for potential electronic interference or navigational degradation. Any suspicious activity, interference, or abnormal occurrences should be reported promptly through established reporting channels.
- Conclusion
In conclusion, while the agreement represents a meaningful step towards improving stability and restoring freedom of navigation, the Strait of Hormuz continues to operate under conditional and evolving risk conditions rather than a fully normalised maritime framework. The effectiveness of the agreement will ultimately depend on its implementation and the continued commitment of all parties to maintaining peace, stability, and constructive dialogue in the region.
Representatives from the United States and Iran are expected to meet in Switzerland over the coming weekend to mark the deal ending the US-Israeli war on Iran, triggering a 60-day-window to negotiate the final terms of a deal. Since the signing of the MOU has already happened, it is understood that talks for the next stage of the agreement will begin, possibly following a smaller ceremony to mark the occasion.
“Currently, the plan remains for the United States and Iran, along with the mediators Pakistan and Qatar and other involved countries, to meet tomorrow at the Burgenstock for initial negotiations on the implementation of the agreement,” the Swiss foreign ministry said on Thursday, 18th June 2026.
Both sides have stressed that this initial arrangement is only a starting point for 60 days of talks on deeper issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, its backing for regional proxies and how the Strait of Hormuz will be managed in future.
Related Articles:
Attachment 1: Reuters 16/06 - US-Iran ceasefire agreement to be public soon, permanent truce still awaits negotiation
Attachment 2: Reuters 17/06 - G7 leaders demand ceasefire in Lebanon, welcome Iran deal
Attachment 3: TradeWinds 19/06 - US fully lifts Iran blockade, as Tehran promises swift Hormuz transit handling
Attachment 4: TradeWinds 15/06 - Hormuz to reopen as US-Iran deal lifts naval blockade
Attachment 5: Hormuz reopens: Was shipping’s doomsday scenario really as bad as feared?
SAFETY4SEA 15/06 - Shipping is glad but cautious about Hormuz reopening and US-Iran peace deal
Attachment 6: ‘Do not cross’: US warns Hormuz blockade still very much in effect
Attachment 7: ‘Still risky’: New body to control rush for Strait of Hormuz exit
IMO 15/06 - IMO Secretary-General welcomes US-Iran agreement
BIMCO 18/06 - Lack of details remain a concern in the Strait of Hormuz
SAFETY4SEA 18/06 - Fragile breakthrough: US and Iran agree to ceasefire and de-escalation framework
SAFETY4SEA 17/06 - Safe passage through Hormuz: Key maritime security considerations
US releases official agreement with Iran. Read the 14-point text | CNN
Initial US-Iran agreement leaves many key issues to be negotiated
White House defends Iran agreement as U.S. lifts Strait of Hormuz blockade | PBS News
2. Bulgaria opposes part of the EU's 21st package, however EU renews Russia sanctions for 12 months and tightens pressure on Russia with new sanctions
On 15 June 2026, the European Union adopted a new sanctions package in response to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. The measures expand existing restrictive listings by adding 34 individuals and 47 entities linked to Russia’s military, economic, and political structures. A key focus of the package is the disruption of Russia’s energy revenues and its so-called “shadow fleet,” which the EU describes as a network of vessels and intermediaries used to transport crude oil and petroleum products in circumvention of sanctions.
The package targets ship managers, technical operators, traders, and associated service providers involved in these activities, including entities linked to major Russian energy companies such as Lukoil and Gazprom. Several shipping-related companies and individuals have been designated for their alleged involvement in facilitating oil transport, including through practices such as ship-to-ship transfers, AIS manipulation, and the use of opaque ownership and insurance structures. The EU also highlights concerns regarding inadequate liability insurance and increased operational and environmental risks associated with these vessels. In addition, the sanctions extend to intermediaries providing insurance, brokerage, and administrative services supporting the movement of Russian-origin oil. These measures include actors based in multiple jurisdictions, including Russia, the UAE, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Liberia, and Hong Kong.
Overall, the package is aimed at further limiting Russia’s ability to generate energy revenues, disrupting the logistics of its shadow fleet operations, and increasing pressure on the commercial networks enabling sanctioned oil trade.
Furthermore, on the 18th June 2026, European Union leaders agreed to extend sanctions against Russia over its war against Ukraine for another 12 months, marking the first time the bloc has renewed the measures for a full year rather than the customary six-month period.
The decision was made during a European Council summit in Brussels that began with the participation of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy before continuing among EU leaders.
Maria Tomasik, spokesperson for the president of the European Council, said EU leaders had approved conclusions on Ukraine and agreed to extend sanctions against Russia for another year. The sanctions target key sectors of the Russian economy.
Despite the above – mentioned new measures against Russia, the adoption of the 21st Sanction Package against Russia is facing new obstacles, with the Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev stating on the sidelines of the European Council meeting on 18 June 2026, that some of the sanctions against Russia in the 21st package are unacceptable, claiming they pose a threat to Bulgaria's economy.
Bulgaria reportedly wants Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill removed from the draft 21st EU package of sanctions against Russia and considers some of the proposed sanctions, particularly energy-related ones, harmful to its economy. "We have already stated our position that we will not allow sanctions that cause damage and pose a risk to the Bulgarian economy. I can point to the risk to the functioning of Lukoil; I can point to the risk to the supply of spare parts for the capital's metro system, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' concerns regarding the delivery of [certain] goods for Bulgaria and for the EU as a whole."
According to European Pravda, the EU's 21st sanctions package against Russia is intended to be approved by 15 July – the deadline for reviewing the price cap on Russian oil.
Related Articles:
Attachment 8: TradeWinds 16/06 - EU tightens $1.5trn Russian sanctions squeeze with fresh shipping targets
SAFETY4SEA 16/06 - EU tightens pressure on Russia with new sanctions
Bulgaria opposes part of the EU's 21st package of sanctions against Russia | Ukrainska Pravda
Bulgaria opposes parts of EU 21st sanctions package | Ukraine news - #Mezha
EU leaders agree to 12-month extension of Russia sanctions
Bulgarian prime minister opposes EU sanctions on Russia's Patriarch Kirill | Euronews
European Council conclusions on Ukraine and on European defence and security - Consilium
EU leaders agree to renew Russia sanctions for 12 months | Reuters
EU leaders agree to renew Russia sanctions for 12 months - Internazionale
3. Cuba: MEPs call for EU sanctions
On Thursday, 18th Junr 2026, the European Parliament condemned the systematic repression carried out by the Cuban regime and demanded profound economic and political change.
In a resolution approved by 283 votes to 199 and 85 abstentions, MEPs say condemned the Cuban regime and urged the EU to adopt targeted measures under the EU global human rights sanctions regime — a framework for imposing measures such as asset freezes - against those responsible for repression, including President Miguel Díaz-Canel, and against the leadership of GAESA, the military conglomerate controlling close to half of the island's economy.
In the absence of clear steps towards democratic transition in the short term, the EU should also suspend the political dialogue and cooperation agreement, MEPs added.
Related Articles:
Cuba: MEPs call for EU sanctions and a push towards transition | News | European Parliament
EU Parliament urges sanctions on Cuban leaders as humanitarian crisis deepens
4. Turkey to raise transit fees for Bosphorus and Dardanelles from 1 July
On Friday, 19th June 2026, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said that Turkey will increase transit fees for vessels passing through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles Straits by 15% from 1 July, as part of its annual tariff revision policy. The new rate, which had been previously reported by media, citing a letter from Turkey’s General Directorate of Maritime Affairs, will rise to approximately USD 6.70 per net ton, compared with the current USD 5.83.
Mr. Uraloglu said vessels passing through the waterways without stopping at Turkish ports are charged under three categories in line with the Montreux Convention: health inspection, lighthouse and salvage services.
The fee adjustments follow Turkey’s decision in 2022 to revise the calculation method linked to the “gold franc” value under the Montreux Convention, after nearly four decades of unchanged rates.
The Turkish Straits remain among the world’s most strategically important maritime passages, connecting the Black Sea with the Mediterranean. The increased charges are expected to have an impact on vessel operating costs, particularly for tankers and bulk carriers using this route.
For the shipping industry, the development highlights the growing importance of monitoring regulatory changes affecting key global maritime chokepoints.
Related Articles:
Safety4Sea 17/06 - Türkiye to raise transit fees for Bosphorus and Dardanelles from 1 July
Turkiye Today 15/06 - Turkish Straits transit fee rises to $6.70 from July 1
Türkiye to raise transit fees for Turkish straits starting July 1-Xinhua
Transit fees through Turkish straits hiked by nearly 15% | Daily Sabah
5. Greece introduces new digital system for seafarer certificates
Greece has introduced a new digital platform designed to streamline the issuance and validation of seafarer certificates, marking another step toward the digital transformation of maritime administration. The system enables Greek seafarers to submit applications electronically for Certificates of Competency, Certificates of Proficiency, and certificate endorsements, reducing paperwork and administrative delays via the platform ani.gov.gr.
According to the Ministry of Maritime and Insular Policy, the platform aims to improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for seafarers while simplifying certification procedures. The initiative forms part of Greece's broader strategy to modernize maritime services, support the seafaring profession, and strengthen the competitiveness of the Greek shipping sector.
The development aligns with wider industry efforts to accelerate digitalization and the adoption of electronic certification solutions across global shipping.
Related Articles:
SafetY4Sea 18/06 - Greece introduces new digital system for seafarer certificates
Kikilias unveils digital platform to streamline services for seafarers
6. EU Parliament Gives Approval to U.S. Trade Deal
On Tuesday, 16th June 2026, the European Parliament approved legislation to implement the EU’s trade deal with the United States, ahead of a deadline set by U.S. President Trump that would have seen tariffs on cars increase, thus averting a new round of tariff conflict between the world's largest trading partners.
Lawmakers voted to approve changes to legislation to remove tariffs on U.S. industrial goods and some agricultural products — fulfilling the EU’s side of the agreement struck last July with the United States.
Washington had agreed to cap tariffs on most EU exports at 15 percent and to lower levies on European cars. Those changes took effect last fall.
Related Articles:
EU-US trade: Parliament gives its green light to tariff legislation | News | European Parliament
EU Parliament passes transatlantic trade deal – POLITICO
EU lawmakers approve US trade deal to avert tariff conflict | Reuters
European Parliament approves Turnberry agreement on tariffs between EU and US
7. ECSA and ICS: Key gaps between EU Ship Recycling Regulation and Hong Kong Convention
On the 18th June 2026, ECSA and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) released an independent study on the key areas of divergence between the EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EU SRR) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Hong Kong Convention (HKC).
As highlighted in the study by ECSA and ICS, HKC has already led to measurable improvements, including an increase in certified recycling facilities worldwide. However, the study also confirms that significant differences remain between the HKC and the EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EU SRR), and that implementation across jurisdictions remains uneven.
Key issues continue to affect effective implementation, including delays in certification processes, inconsistencies in authorisation and oversight of recycling facilities, and uncertainty regarding verification mechanisms and documentation. There are also ongoing challenges in aligning the HKC with the Basel Convention, particularly in relation to regulatory scope and enforcement across borders. These gaps highlight the continued disconnect between regulatory frameworks and practical execution. Regional progress remains uneven. India has made measurable advances in upgrading facilities and compliance systems, while other jurisdictions, including Pakistan, are still in earlier stages of implementation. Although initial certifications under the HKC framework have been achieved in some cases, capacity constraints and institutional limitations continue to affect full compliance. This reflects the broader conclusion of the ECSA-ICS study that effective implementation depends on regulatory, technical, and administrative readiness.
An additional emerging challenge is the recycling of sanctioned vessels. Increasing numbers of end-of-life ships fall under sanctions regimes, creating legal and operational uncertainty around ownership transfer, sale, and disposal. In some cases, this may lead to vessels being abandoned or diverted to non-compliant facilities, increasing environmental and safety risks. Recent policy developments, including limited exemptions under EU sanctions frameworks and selective approvals in the United States, indicate early steps toward enabling safe recycling of sanctioned vessels. However, these measures remain limited in scope and do not yet provide a comprehensive or consistent global framework.
Overall, while the HKC and related regulatory developments represent a significant step forward in global ship recycling governance, the sector continues to face material legal, operational, and enforcement gaps. The ECSA-ICS study underscores that further alignment between international frameworks is required to achieve a coherent and consistently enforceable global system for safe and environmentally sound ship recycling.
Related Articles:
BIMCO 16/06 - What's happening in ship recycling?
ECSA and ICS: Key gaps between EU Ship Recycling Regulation and Hong Kong Convention - SAFETY4SEA
8. UAE reportedly plans to cut Strait of Hormuz dependency
The UAE is reportedly advancing plans to reduce its dependence on the Strait of Hormuz by investing in alternative export routes and expanding infrastructure along its eastern coastline.
"Hormuz is going to open and we hope that will happen quickly, but we will not stop the new plan," said UAE trade minister Thani Al Zeyoudi, in conversation with Bloomberg News on the 17th June 2026. "We're moving toward having zero Hormuz dependency and that's regardless of whether it's open or not."
Central to this strategy is the enhancement of the Port of Fujairah and other eastern ports, alongside the development of additional pipeline capacity that would allow crude oil exports to bypass the Strait entirely. These initiatives aim to strengthen energy security and ensure export continuity amid potential regional disruptions.
The move reflects growing efforts by Gulf states to mitigate geopolitical risks associated with one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. While the Strait of Hormuz remains vital to global energy trade, the UAE's long-term vision is to build a more resilient and diversified logistics network.
For the maritime sector, these developments could lead to increased activity at eastern UAE ports and further reinforce Fujairah's position as a major global energy and bunkering hub.
Related Articles:
Safety4Sea 18/06 - UAE reportedly plans to cut Strait of Hormuz dependency
UAE Wants to End its Reliance on Shipping Through Strait of Hormuz
9. Maritime organisations call on EU to include shipping in electrification plan
European maritime companies and organizations have called on the European Commission to fully integrate shipping into its upcoming Electrification Action Plan, arguing that faster electrification of ports and vessels is essential.
In a joint letter addressed to senior EU Commissioners, the coalition welcomed the forthcoming plan as a major opportunity to accelerate Europe’s transition toward a “resilient, competitive and electrified shipping economy.” The signatories emphasized that electrification across ports, terminals, and vessels should be treated as a central component of EU industrial strategy.
However, the industry group warned that progress is being held back by structural barriers, including lengthy permitting procedures, insufficient electricity grid capacity, and limited deployment of storage and flexibility technologies. These issues, they said, are slowing the adoption of established solutions such as shore-side electricity and battery-electric vessels.
The Europan Commission is expected to publish the electrification plan on 15 July. The plan aims to accelerate electrification across Europe, cut fossil fuel imports, reduce air pollution and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Related Articles:
Organizations urge the EU to include shipping in its electrification plan - SAFETY4SEA
Maritime organisations call on EU to include shipping in electrification plan
10. US TREASURY REPORT
The US Treasury Report for all actions reported is hereby attached.
Related Article:
Attachment 8: US Treasury Report for week 13/06/2026 – 19/06/2025
11. PIRACY REPORT
The Piracy Report for all actions reported is hereby attached.
Related Article:
Attachment 9: Worldwide Threat to Shipping (WTS) Report, for the period between 20/05/2026 – 17/06/2026
Nothing important to report from ILO, Local News and the House of Representatives.