Double Pay for Seafarers on UK and US Ships in Red Sea Due to Houthi Threats

Seafarers working on ships linked to the United Kingdom and United States traveling through the Red Sea will receive double pay due to increasing threats from Houthi rebels. The UK’s Warlike Operations Area Committee (WOAC) has expanded its recommendations to include ships linked to the UK and US, allowing affected seafarers to disembark at an appropriate port before entering the high-risk zone or receive double pay for each day spent in the area. This change will take effect on January 19, 2024, in response to threats from Houthi rebels who have declared British and American assets as legitimate targets.

David Appleton, head of professional and technical operations at Nautilus International, welcomed the decision, emphasizing the critical role of merchant marine seafarers in maintaining global supply chains. He stated the importance of prioritizing the safety of seafarers in high-risk zones and urged shipping companies to give seafarers opportunities to disembark or ensure they are paid in accordance with WOAC recommendations. The decision comes after targeted attacks by Britain and the US in Yemen to protect freedom of navigation, prompting threats from Houthi rebels and the need to protect the lives of seafarers.

Source .