- A pattern of unprovoked assaults on merchant vessels happened in critical maritime routes.
- BIMCO emphasizes the imperative need for collective action.
- Highlighting the unacceptable risks that seafarers face during their crucial role in global supply chains.
Escalating Threat to International Shipping
A month ago, a concerning pattern of unprovoked assaults on merchant vessels commenced in critical maritime routes like the Southern Red Sea, Bab El-Mandeb, the Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea. Allegedly originating from the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, these attacks have been steadily mounting, posing a serious risk to commercial shipping, reports Bimco.
Call for Collaborative Action
BIMCO, emphasizing the imperative need for collective action, urges nations to unite in safeguarding international shipping. David Loosley, Secretary General & CEO of BIMCO, highlights the unacceptable risk that seafarers face while fulfilling their crucial role in global supply chains.
Impact on Global Trade and Law Violation
A staggering 12% of global trade traverses the Suez Canal, constituting approximately 30% of worldwide container traffic and exceeding USD 1 trillion worth of goods annually. The Houthi movement’s heightened attacks since November 19, 2023, not only threaten this vital trade route but also blatantly disregard the principles of freedom of navigation outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Undermining the Rules-Based Order
Loosley underscores that these unlawful assaults represent a flagrant violation of the freedom of navigation, striking at the core of the rules-based international order upon which the smooth operation of international shipping relies heavily.
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Source: Bimco
