- Yemeni Houthi rebels have been targeting shipping vessels, particularly those linked to Israel.
- German shipping companies are diverting ships around the southern tip of Africa to avoid threats, resulting in significant delays and costs.
- The international community is actively working to protect shipping routes in the region.
In recent months, the Association of German Shipowners (VDR) and German shipping companies have been facing targeted threats from Yemeni Houthi rebels. These threats, which primarily affect ships traveling to Israeli ports or passing through key maritime routes in the Middle East, have raised significant concerns within the global shipping industry, reports SAFETY4SEA.
Threats to Shipping in the Middle East
The VDR announced that the Houthi rebels have specifically targeted vessels that either call at Israeli ports or transit through high-risk areas, including the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.
The threats have been delivered via well-researched emails, aimed at specific individuals within shipping companies, making them more personal and intimidating.
Impact on German Shipping Companies
To minimize the risk of attacks, German shipping companies have been opting for an alternative route around the southern tip of Africa. While this detour helps avoid potential threats, it adds two weeks to the journey and increases operational costs.
Despite the delays, this route is currently seen as the safest option for avoiding the ongoing threat from the Houthis, who have already targeted over 200 merchant ships since the onset of the Israel-Gaza conflict in October 2023.
Irina Haesler, a member of the VDR management board, emphasized the seriousness of these threats, noting that shipping companies are in constant communication with security authorities to ensure the safety of vessels and their crews.
The attacks have already resulted in fatalities, hijackings, and significant damage to ships, highlighting the ongoing risks in this region.
International Efforts to Secure Maritime Routes
In response to the growing threat, international operations such as Operation Prosperity Guardian and the EU’s Operation Atalanta are actively working to secure maritime routes and protect shipping operations in the region.
The safety of these routes is crucial for Europe, as disruptions could impact the security of supply for the continent.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
