Why the Iran war is threatening whales near South Africa

The war between the United States and Iran has rerouted global shipping traffic, significantly increasing vessel numbers around South Africa's coast. This shift, driven by disruptions in the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz since late 2023 and early 2026 respectively, has nearly doubled maritime activity in the region. Researchers presented findings to the International Whaling Commission indicating a substantial rise in the risk of ship strikes for whales. South Africa's southwestern coast, a vital habitat for numerous whale species including southern right, humpback, and Bryde's whales, is now experiencing this amplified threat. The increased traffic poses a danger to these significant whale populations.

Scientists are warning of an increased risk of whale-ship collisions off South Africa's south-western coast. This heightened danger is attributed to the rerouting of commercial vessels around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid conflicts in the Middle East, specifically since Houthi rebel actions in 2023 and ongoing tensions involving Iran. The number of ships transiting this route has nearly doubled between March and April of this year compared to the same period in 2023. Researchers from the University of Pretoria's Whale Unit have analyzed whale distribution models and shipping routes to identify areas of potential collision. While the exact number of whales struck is difficult to quantify due to a lack of current data, the increased ship traffic poses a significant concern for whale populations in the region.