Middle East Maritime Chokepoints Shipping Monitor

This interactive tool shows maritime traffic flows through three key shipping chokepoints in the Middle East. It enables users to see how shipping flows have evolved since the start of the war in the region that began on 28 February 2026. Drawing on data from IMF PortWatch, it will be updated regularly. Users should be aware that GPS jamming, automatic identification system (AIS) spoofing, and vessels going dark are all reported issues in the region; PortWatch's FAQ page has further detail on the limitations of AIS data.

The war in the Middle East has created the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market while also impeding critical flows of natural gas and other key commodities. This has major implications for energy security and affordability – and for the world economy.