Nautilus International has issued a reminder to seafarers about their rights while operating in the Red Sea, especially following Yemen’s Houthi movement’s declaration of a maritime blockade on the Israeli port of Haifa. The Houthi spokesman stated that vessels associated with the port are prohibited from transiting key maritime routes and may face attacks from Houthi forces. This announcement raises concerns about escalating tensions in the region, despite a recent agreement to suspend attacks on U.S. shipping.
As part of the UK’s Warlike Operations Area Committee (WOAC), Nautilus, along with the RMT union and the UK Chamber of Shipping, monitors threats to seafarers and shipping companies. The WOAC has outlined specific recommendations for vessels linked to Israeli interests or registered under U.S. or UK flags, particularly those operating in the Southern Red Sea, Bab al Mandab Strait, and parts of the Gulf of Aden.
Key recommendations include allowing seafarers to opt out of voyages to high-risk areas and ensuring that crew members remaining on board receive full pay during their time in the warlike operations area. Additionally, the WOAC proposes doubling compensation for any seafarer’s death or detention and underwriting personal life insurance policies that may be affected by their service in these areas.
