Dryad Global Warns of Escalating Threats Across Key Shipping Lanes

By
Mfame Editor
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11

  • Israeli naval strike targets Houthi infrastructure as 10–12% of global trade at risk.
  • Shipping faces 3–7% fuel cost increases and a 12–15% rise in war risk premiums.
  • NATO expands patrols in the North and Baltic Seas under the Baltic Sentry mission.

Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have intensified their operations against vessels associated with Israel, the U.S., and the U.K. in the Red Sea. Since November 2023, they’ve carried out 128 attacks, including the sinking of the ETERNITY C on July 8. In July 2025, they also issued threats to 64 companies for violating the blockade on Israeli ports. A recent Israeli naval strike targeted Houthi infrastructure, but the danger remains significant. With 10–12% of global trade passing through this area, operators are being urged to reroute, turn off their AIS, steer clear of Yemen’s coast, and adhere to strict security protocols, reports Dryad Global.

Why this matters for commercial shipping

  1. Fuel costs could increase by 3–7% due to the need for rerouting.
  2. War risk insurance premiums are expected to rise by 12–15% each year.
  3. Ongoing grey zone tactics are likely to elevate operational costs and disrupt supply chains.

NATO Expands Presence in the North and Baltic Seas

In August 2025, NATO boosted its maritime patrols in the North Sea and Baltic Sea as part of the Baltic Sentry mission, which aims to counter Russian aggression and protect undersea infrastructure. Anti-submarine operations are in progress, particularly focusing on monitoring Russia’s Admiral Vladimirsky. Oil and LNG tankers are facing tighter scrutiny due to Russia’s shadow fleet and efforts to evade sanctions. Increased inspections and AIS monitoring could lead to delays, especially at critical chokepoints like the Danish Straits. While major disruptions are still limited, NATO’s expanding presence might affect shipping schedules.

Why it matters for maritime security

  1. Potential transit delays and inspections at critical chokepoints
  2. Additional operational costs from sanctions enforcement measures

Other Noteworthy Intelligence Updates

  1. The Black Sea Task Force is ramping up efforts to clear sea mines.
  2. Mexico has extradited 26 cartel members to the U.S., including some high-ranking leaders.
  3. Kenya is making strides in establishing a maritime security information hub.
  4. The U.S. has sent two warships to the South China Sea following a collision incident involving China.
  5. A coal explosion has caused damage to a bulk carrier near Baltimore.
  6. Norway is pointing fingers at pro-Russian hackers for a cyberattack on the dam infrastructure.

What This Means for the Maritime Industry

This week’s intelligence highlights just how intricate and layered maritime risks can be:

  1. Geopolitical hotspots like the South China Sea are creating navigation challenges and driving up operational costs.
  2. Organised crime is adapting, with narco-submarines making their appearance in the South Pacific.
  3. Cyber threats and sanctions are changing the regulatory landscape and risk factors.

For shipping companies, operators, and insurers, Dryad Global emphasises the need for proactive awareness and data-driven risk intelligence to protect assets, crews, and supply chains.

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Source: Dryad Global