Evolution of the situation in the Middle East and initial consequences for businesses

The security situation in the Middle East has significantly deteriorated following the joint US–Israeli strikes on Iran on 28 February 2026, marking a major escalation in the ongoing conflict. In response, Iran has launched strikes and missile attacks on several countries in the region, triggering airspace closures, flight cancellations and emergency measures.At the same time, many governments are recommending evacuation or a ban on travel to Iran, Lebanon and several Gulf countries due to the rapid deterioration of security conditions.

1. Immediate measures to ensure traveller safety- Suspend all travel to the affected areas and consult the recommendations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (https://www.esteri.it/en/)- Maintain continuous contact with employees already on site.- Ensure all travellers have access to Assistance contact numbers.In all cases, it is strongly advised to register on the Viaggiare Sicuri (https://www.viaggiaresicuri.it/home) platform and  make yourself known to your embassy. Strengthened mobilisation of Business Travel Assistance servicesThe medical and security assistance teams remain fully mobilised, in line with the guarantees provided under Business Travel insurance policies.Their support includes:- 24/7 information and security monitoring of the evolving situation- assistance in organising early returns or rerouting to avoid high‑risk areas- medical and security support, including coordination with local partners- dedicated logistical assistance for employees currently in the regionReminder: the assistance provider is bound by a duty of means, not a duty of result, particularly in conflict situations. This means they commit all necessary resources and actions to support your employees, without being able to guarantee outcomes in conflict zones. 2. Operational points of attention for businesses and international teams(based on Crisis24 and information shared by embassies – Verlingue relays these recommendations)Priorities for employees travelling in the region- Immediately identify employees present in the affected countries (UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Israel).→ Set up regular check‑ins with escalation procedures in case of no response.- Suspend all non‑essential travel.- Consider transit through Gulf hubs as high‑risk in terms of disruption.→ Keep employees in secure accommodation until exit routes are confirmed.- Avoid accommodation close to sensitive infrastructure.- Update air contingency plans (alternative routes, management of stranded travellers, extended accommodation). Business continuity measures for expatriates and local teams- Activate business continuity plans (remote working, limited movements, revised security protocols).- Strengthen shelter‑in‑place capabilities for 72 hours.- Inform headquarters of escalation thresholds: intensification of strikes, activation of affiliated armed groups, damage to critical infrastructure, additional airspace closures.- Reminders issued by embassiesEmbassies, including the Italian Embassy, urge vigilance and warn against unverified offers of assistance or evacuation. 3. Insurance impacts: current developments in the Marine & Transport marketThe current situation directly affects maritime operations. The market is reacting cautiously given the scale of exposures in the region. Expected developments in Cargo insurance coverInsurers are seeking to reduce their exposure, with updates to CESAM lists and the JCC Global Cargo Watch List. Recent decisions by P&I ClubsMost Clubs have issued Notices of Cancellation (NOC) on non‑mutualised covers (fixed‑premium P&I, Charterers’ Liability). Once the notice periods expire:- navigation in the Persian Gulf/Arabian Gulf and Iranian waters will be excluded from automatic “war risks” cover;- buy‑back solutions are being examined for a potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and for vessels currently in the area. Existing exclusions for Hull & MachineryThe Persian Gulf and a broader surrounding area are already excluded from automatic cover under JWLA zones, with an extension to adjacent zones effective 04/03/2026. Our teams remain mobilised to support you.In a rapidly evolving context, our experts are here to support you in analysing your exposures, adapting your risk management arrangements, and understanding the impact on your insurance cover and the protection of your employees.