The recent escalation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Iranian threats against commercial shipping have sent shockwaves through the global economy. But for the American merchant mariners and contractors working on those tankers and cargo ships, the “global economy” isn’t the concern—personal safety is.

At the Aaron Perry Law Firm, we are keeping a close watch on these international developments because they directly impact the safety and legal rights of maritime workers.

Does U.S. Law Protect You in a War Zone?

A common question we hear is: “If I’m injured in international waters due to a drone strike or seizure, does the Jones Act still apply?”

The answer is often yes. If you are a “seaman” on a U.S.-flagged vessel or working for a U.S.-based company, your protections don’t stop at the border. Under the Jones Act, your employer has a non-delegable duty to provide you with a “reasonably safe” place to work.

Negligence in High-Risk Waters

When a company chooses to send a vessel into a known “Maritime Warning Zone”—like the one currently declared in the Middle East—they take on an immense legal responsibility. If an employer fails to:

• Provide adequate security or anti-drone measures.
• Heed official MARAD (U.S. Maritime Administration) warnings.
• Properly train the crew for emergency evasive maneuvers.

…then they may be held liable for any injuries, trauma, or wrongful death that occurs. Aaron Perry knows that “it’s a war zone” is not a valid legal excuse for an employer to ignore the safety of their crew.

The Aaron Perry Advantage: An Undefeated Perspective

Navigating a maritime claim involving international conflict requires a lawyer who isn’t intimidated by large corporations or complex federal laws. Aaron Perry, a former undefeated prosecutor, has built his career on taking the most difficult cases to trial and winning.

Whether you are dealing with an injury in the Gulf of Mexico or a traumatic event in the Gulf of Oman, you deserve a champion who understands the high stakes of the maritime industry.

If you or a loved one has been affected by maritime negligence, contact Aaron Perry today. We are ready for the fight.