Kuwait has moved to protect its contractual obligations after disruptions to tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz forced it to suspend part of its oil export commitments, Reuters reported, citing Bloomberg News.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), a state- owned oil company, notified clients that it is activating a force majeure clause following difficulties faced by some vessels attempting to access the Persian Gulf. The notice, sent on Friday, allows the state oil company to temporarily withhold agreed shipments under exceptional circumstances, according to the report.

The development follows a blockade in the strategic waterway, which has constrained maritime access and complicated export logistics for Gulf producers. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital artery for global energy flows, carrying a substantial share of internationally traded crude.

KPC indicated that while certain deliveries may be delayed or adjusted, the situation is not expected to result in a full suspension of exports, and efforts are ongoing to manage supply commitments where feasible.

Kuwait had already invoked force majeure earlier in March 2026, when escalating regional conflict and security threats in the Strait of Hormuz severely disrupted shipping. At that time, KPC reduced crude output and refining operations as tanker availability dropped sharply and safe maritime passage became uncertain.