- Liberian-flagged LNG tanker, Trader III, is sailing through the Red Sea, the second LNG vessel to do so in 2025 amid tensions.
- Passed the Suez Canal on Feb 14, now heading toward Bab al-Mandab Strait despite Houthi threats.
- Houthi militants in Yemen have targeted tankers, supporting Gazan militants in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
- Suez Canal remains critical for LNG shipments between Europe and Asia.
The Liberian-flagged LNG tanker, Trader III, is currently navigating the Red Sea, marking a rare voyage in a region where maritime tensions have been rising. The vessel passed through the Suez Canal on February 14 and is now moving toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, according to Devdiscourse.
This route has been largely avoided in recent months due to Houthi militant activity in the area. The group, which operates from Yemen, has been targeting commercial vessels, allegedly in support of Gazan militants involved in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Strategic Importance of the Suez Canal
Despite security risks, the Suez Canal remains a vital passage for LNG shipments between Europe and Asia. The Trader III’s voyage signals a gradual return of LNG traffic through this corridor, although concerns about maritime security persist.
Tanker’s Last Known Cargo and Destination
The Trader III previously loaded LNG in Brazil and delivered cargo to Turkey in late January. Its current destination remains unclear, but ship-tracking data from LSEG and Kpler confirm its movement through the region.
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Source: Devdiscourse
