Message from our Chair on the situation in the Middle East

Behind every voyage, every delivery and every commercial decision are human beings carrying a very real burden.

While many may focus on headlines and state actors, there are also thousands of men and women across shipping and the marine fuels sector who continue to do their work under mounting uncertainty, heightened risk, and strain. They are not decision-makers in this crisis, yet they are among those directly exposed to its consequences.

As Chair of IBIA, I believe we must keep sight of that human dimension. The consequences of conflict do not stop at national borders. They travel across supply chains, across shipping lanes, and across the lives of the people who keep global commerce moving.

This is a moment for seriousness and steadiness. Protecting those at sea, preserving safe navigation and reducing further risk must remain at the centre of attention. Composure matters. So does responsibility. The priority must be to limit further risk, support those exposed, and keep the safety of crews and vessels firmly in view.

The impact extends into marine energy as well, with uncertainty, disrupted flows and operational pressure affecting a sector that depends on stability, predictability and the safe movement of vessels at sea. As IBIA secretariat has separately stated, we stand ready to support our members and the wider marine energy community.