Hapag-Lloyd AG Continues to Avoid Red Sea Route Amidst Heightened Security Concerns
Hapag-Lloyd AG, one of the world’s leading international shipping companies, is maintaining its decision to avoid sending its vessels through the Red Sea despite increased efforts by the international community to protect commercial ships from recent attacks.
Red Sea Route Suspended
In response to drone and missile attacks originating from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, Hapag-Lloyd and rival company Maersk temporarily halted traffic through the Red Sea. Both companies rerouted their shipments around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope to ensure the safety of their crews, vessels, and cargo.
While Maersk has announced plans to resume Red Sea shipments, Hapag-Lloyd remains cautious and continues to reroute its vessels. The company stated that it considers the situation still dangerous and will assess it on a daily basis.
Persistent Houthi Threat
The Houthi rebel movement, also known as Ansar Allah, has been responsible for ongoing attacks in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Despite the establishment of a Red Sea maritime security mission by the Pentagon, Houthi attacks have persisted.
On December 26, the Houthi armed wing claimed responsibility for a missile attack on the Mediterranean Shipping Co. container ship MSC United as it approached the southern end of the Red Sea.
Background on the Conflict
The conflict between the Houthis and Yemen’s internationally recognized government escalated in 2014 when the Houthis took control of the capital city, Sanaa. This sparked a civil war that prompted intervention from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states. The Houthis are believed to have backing from Iran.
Protecting International Shipping
The United States has launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, a multilateral Red Sea maritime security mission, to safeguard international shipping. However, some countries have chosen to continue their own maritime security efforts in the region rather than joining the U.S.-led operation.
The Houthi threat poses a significant risk to global shipping, as approximately 10 to 15 percent of global trade flows through the Red Sea.
Efforts are ongoing to address the security concerns and ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels in the region.
