Marine insurers have introduced new measures to restrict war risk coverage for ships operating in parts of the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.
According to an article on global marine news platform Ship & Bunker, this came into effect on 16 August 2026, after marine (re)insurers issued notices cancelling some coverage in these areas, against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Red Sea and attacks on vessels by the Houthis.
This development is of particular importance to the Red Sea, which is a major route for international trade linked to the Suez Canal, an article on news platform Al Mal News stated. Bab al-Mandab also represents a strategic crossing point between the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.
Skuld posted a general notice of cancellation and reinstatement in respect of certain war risks on 12 August, and was followed closely by Gard, NorthStandard, UK P&I and London P&I.