Maersk Prepares to Resume Shipping Operations in the Red Sea
Denmark’s Maersk Announces Plans to Resume Shipping Operations in the Red Sea
Denmark’s Maersk has revealed its intention to resume shipping operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, with the assistance of a U.S.-led military operation aimed at ensuring the safety of commerce in the region.
Temporary Pause on Vessels Through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait
The shipping giant had temporarily halted the passage of vessels through the Bab el-Mandeb strait in December due to attacks on its ships, leading to the closure of the Suez Canal for most routes, which is crucial for global commerce.
U.S. Launches Operation Prosperity Guardian to Protect Red Sea Commerce
With escalating attacks from Iran-backed Yemeni militants in the region, the United States initiated a multinational operation called Operation Prosperity Guardian (OPG) to safeguard commerce in the Red Sea from such threats. The operation aims to curb the firing of drones and missiles at international vessels that have disrupted maritime activities since last month.
Confirmation of the Operation’s Deployment
As of the 24th of December 2023, Maersk expressed its readiness to navigate the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with the deployment of Operation Prosperity Guardian. This development opens up the Suez Canal as a key gateway between Asia and Europe once again.
Preparation for Vessels to Resume Transit
With the Operation Prosperity Guardian in full swing, Maersk is gearing up to allow vessels to transit through the Red Sea in both eastbound and westbound directions. The company plans to release more detailed information in the coming days and is ready to divert ship traffic if safety conditions evolve.
Consideration of Alternative Routes and Surcharges
During the period of uncertainty, Maersk had rerouted ships around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope and imposed container surcharges for shipments from Asia to cover the additional costs incurred due to the longer journey. Several other firms and oil major BP also suspended transit through the Red Sea amid safety concerns.
