Shipping Industry Leaders Call For Immediate Action In Red Sea After Houthis Sink 2nd Ship

The shipping industry leaders have urged states for immediate action in the Red Sea following the sinking of a second vessel by Yemeni Houthis.

The Greek-owned coal carrier was sunk after being hit by missiles and an explosive-laden remote-control boat.

Since November, Iran-backed Houthi terrorists have launched over 70 drone and missile attacks on commercial ships, claiming solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza.

These attacks have killed at least three sailors and led to the seizure of one Roro vessel and its crew.

The maritime sector condemned the attacks, highlighting sailors’ critical role in global trade.

International naval forces have been dispatched to provide defensive support for ships in the Red Sea, but attacks have still increased.

Insurance industry insiders raised concern about the Houthis’ use of attack drone boats, which are more difficult to deter and perhaps more dangerous.

The recent increase in attacks included ten strikes in June alone, compared to five in May.

The ongoing conflict has significantly interrupted global maritime traffic, with the US Defense Intelligence Agency reporting a 90% decrease in container shipments across the Red Sea since December.

The region is critical for goods transit between Asia, Europe, and beyond, accounting for 15% of worldwide maritime traffic.

The increased risk has resulted in higher war risk premiums, which add significant costs to each voyage.

The General Secretary of the International Transport Workers’ Federation, Stephen Cotton, advised rerouting ships around southern Africa to protect seafarers.

He also urged for effective naval escorts to protect ships from attacks.

The situation has forced ships to divert from Asia-Europe and Asia-Atlantic trade routes across Africa’s Cape of Good Hope, resulting in longer journey times and higher operational expenses.

The diversion has led to congestion at African ports, which are struggling to handle the increasing number of vessels.

Improved infrastructure and digitalization at these ports are crucial to reducing diverted maritime traffic challenges.

Leading maritime organizations, including the World Maritime Council and the Asian Shipowners’ Association, condemned the attacks in a joint statement as an infringement of freedom of navigation.

They urged prominent authorities to intervene immediately to de-escalate the situation and protect seafarers.

However, the Houthis have pledged to continue their strikes as long as the situation in Gaza continues.

Reference: Reuters, Al Jazeera

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Source: Maritime Shipping News