We write to inform you of recent developments concerning war risks in relation to Iran and the Persian/Arabian Gulf, and related changes made by the London Market Joint War Committee (JWC) and certain International Group P&I Clubs.​

Following recent events in the region, the JWC has issued an Advisory notice amending its Hull War, Piracy, Terrorism and Related Perils Listed Areas, reflecting an enhanced risk perception in the named areas. We understand that Bahrain, Djibouti, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar have been added, and that the existing areas for the Persian/Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden and Southern Red Sea have been amended; these changes will take effect 72 hours after issuance of the Advisory, rather than the usual 7 days. For Members’ reference, a copy of the relevant Joint War Listed Areas (JWLA) Advisory is attached.​

Separately, a number of International Group P&I Clubs have issued Notices of Cancellation in respect of certain non-mutual war risk liabilities for vessels trading in Iran, Iranian waters and the Persian/Arabian Gulf. These notices, which typically provide 72 hours’ notice of cancellation from 00:00 hrs (GMT) on 1 March 2026, mean that, from 00:00 hrs on 5 March 2026, an exclusion will apply to war risks coverage under specified fixed-premium and other non-mutual policies within the excluded geographical areas. We understand that affected policies may include fixed-premium cover supplied to shipowners, charterers’ liability cover, non-poolable extended covers to mutual entries, and fixed-premium P&I cover, and that some Clubs may offer limited buy-back covers on agreed terms.​

We are advised that mutual entries for protection and indemnity cover will continue to benefit from the Excess War cover, and that the recent Notices of Cancellation relate only to specified non‑mutual war risks liabilities within the defined excluded areas, which include Iran and Iranian waters (up to 12 nautical miles offshore) and the Persian/Arabian Gulf and adjacent waters including the Gulf of Oman and waters west of the line from Oman’s territorial limit off Cape al-Ḥadd (22°42.5’N, 59°54.5’E) to the Iran–Pakistan border (25°10.5’N, 61°37.5’E).​

Members are strongly encouraged to:
Review the attached JWLA Advisory and any corresponding circulars issued by their P&I Clubs and war risks underwriters.​
Assess existing and planned voyages involving Iran, Iranian waters, the Persian/Arabian Gulf and adjacent areas in light of the revised Listed Areas and any applicable exclusions, notice requirements, or premium adjustments.​
Consult their brokers and insurers to confirm the scope of cover, any new exclusions, and the availability of additional or buy-back covers where appropriate.​

Members who have questions of a technical insurance nature may wish to discuss directly with their Clubs and brokers. The Association remains available to relay any common concerns to the relevant international bodies and market participants as appropriate.