Two CMA CGM vessels have successfully navigated the Suez Canal, signaling a potential easing of disruptions caused by the ongoing Gaza conflict, according to the canal authority. Since November 2023, shipping companies have avoided the canal due to attacks on commercial vessels by Yemen’s Houthi militants, who have expressed support for Palestinians amidst the fighting.
The situation appears to be improving since a fragile ceasefire began on October 10, with no reported Houthi attacks on ships. This development has prompted shipping companies to reconsider their use of the Suez Canal, a critical source of foreign currency for Egypt. The CMA CGM Jacques Saade and CMA CGM Adonis recently traversed the canal, with the former operating on an Asia-North Europe route and the latter on an Asia-Mediterranean circuit.
Additionally, Maersk announced that one of its vessels has navigated the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait for the first time in nearly two years, though the company remains cautious about fully reopening the route. CMA CGM plans to utilize the canal for its India-U.S. INDAMEX service starting in January, indicating a gradual return to normal operations.
