The developing conflict in the Middle East is impacting the global economy and creating legal, regulatory and commercial implications across the region and beyond. With the energy, infrastructure and transport markets facing intense pressure and supply chains under threat, our lawyers are carefully considering the growing range of challenges that are arising.
Combining insights from our extensive work in these core sectors, our lawyers analyse the issues affecting organisations and stakeholders worldwide and provide the guidance needed to navigate the complexities of this evolving crisis.
Visit our media hub to explore our press coverage and expert commentary on the developing situation.
2026 Jones Act Waiver: What You Need To Know
23 March 2026 – On March 19, 2026, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection published a notice confirming the issuance of a 60-day limited waiver by the Department of Homeland Security permitting foreign-flagged vessels to operate in the U.S. coastwise trade for the purpose of transporting at least 659 types of commodities.
Middle East conflict impact on energy markets and projects – will high gas prices result in regulatory change?
Middle East conflict impact on energy markets and projects – will high gas prices result in regulatory change?23 March 2026 – Disruption in the Middle East is impacting energy markets and projects. Will high gas prices result in regulatory change and how does this affect the acceleration of renewable energy?
The impact of damage to refineries in the Middle East on jet fuel supplies may have far-reaching effects
12 March 2026 – With crude oil movements disrupted, refinery capacity curtailed and tanker routes growing increasingly perilous, airlines worldwide now face an uncertain and volatile operating environment.
Will the Middle East conflict have any impact on aircraft insurances?
6 March 2026 – Our aviation experts consider the impact the conflict may have on aircraft insurances, analysing cancellation/review notices and the ‘grip of the peril’ doctrine.
THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ – ITS CLOSURE AND ITS IMPLICATIONS
4 March 2026 – Our shipping experts analyse the legal implications of the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz and remind stakeholders of the legal and commercial issues likely to arise.
The Strait of Hormuz: Force Majeure and Repudiation Considerations
24 July 2025 – Our experts discuss the importance of force majeure clauses and consider the various consequences of invoking these contractual options.
The Strait of Hormuz: How to get out of a contract by frustration
21 July 2025 – This article looks at the English common law doctrine of ‘frustration’ and how parties without a force majeure clause may rely on this to terminate a contract.
The Strait of Hormuz: to trade or not to trade? Insurance implications of a potential closure of the Strait
17 July 2025 – This article examines the effects on marine insurance caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz: How to deal with contractual issues, rights and obligations
16 July 2025 – This article examines a range of contractual issues that can arise with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz including renegotiating contracts, claims for breach and war risk clauses.
If you have any questions or need support, please speak to your usual WFW contact or get in touch with one of our sector heads listed above.
