Hapag-Lloyd Diverts Ships from Suez Canal Following Houthis’ Attack

Germany’s Hapag-Lloyd has decided to divert its ships away from the Suez Canal for safety reasons, following a missile and boat swarm attack by the Houthis. The company spokesperson stated that they would continue to reroute their ships until January 9, at which point they would decide whether to continue with the diversion. Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) have also announced their decision to reroute ships via the Cape of Good Hope.

While Maersk and CMA CGM have returned their ships to the Red Sea, Hapag-Lloyd remains cautious and will continue to keep its ships away from the region, even after the launch of a US-led task force to protect the route from militant attacks. This decision results in a detour of several thousand miles compared to the Suez Canal, amid a series of attacks on merchant ships by Yemeni rebels supporting the Palestinians on the route that carries about 12% of global trade.

The Hapag-Lloyd container ship Hangzhou, which was hit by an unknown object during the attack, has continued its journey and is now near the Suez Canal. The number of container ships diverting to avoid the Red Sea has doubled from last week, as companies take precautions to ensure the safety of their ships and cargo.

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