Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S, stated that the ongoing conflict in Iran is expected to raise operational costs by approximately $500 million per month. The world's second-largest container shipping company plans to pass these costs onto customers to maintain profitability. In a recent interview, Clerc expressed confidence in sustaining this strategy, citing strong demand in the market. However, he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding future demand and inflation as the war continues. Maersk's first-quarter earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization totaled $1.75 billion, surpassing analysts' expectations of $1.66 billion. Despite the current strong demand, the outlook for global container demand in 2026 remains uncertain, particularly due to rising energy prices and trade constraints in the Upper Gulf region, which accounted for about 6% of global container trade in 2025. The company is also navigating risks associated with the safety of its vessels in the Persian Gulf, with some ships remaining in the area until conditions improve.