War on the Rocks and the Royal United Services Institute are hosting a webinar to discuss the impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict on maritime navigation.
Key facts
- •The United States and Israel began a war against Iran in February 2026.
- •Open hostilities in the region resumed in mid-July following a period of intermittent strikes and a ceasefire.
- •The Strait of Hormuz has faced blockages as a result of the ongoing conflict.
- •Yemeni Houthis have threatened Saudi shipping traffic passing through the Bab al-Mandab.
- •The webinar features speakers including former Royal Navy fleet commander Vice Admiral (ret.) Andrew Burns.
War on the Rocks and the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) have announced the first webinar of 'The Atlantic Brief.' The session will focus on the Strait of Hormuz and the future of free navigation in light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Context of the Middle East Conflict
In February 2026, the United States and Israel initiated a war against Iran. Since that time, the conflict has involved a series of strikes, a fragile ceasefire, and the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz. Open hostilities between the parties resumed in mid-July.
Maritime Security Risks
Beyond the Strait of Hormuz, maritime security concerns have expanded to the Bab al-Mandab. Houthis in Yemen have recently issued threats against Saudi shipping in that waterway, increasing the risk to vessels navigating the route.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by War on the Rocks.
