Shipping companies are being urged to exercise caution in deploying private armed guards on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden due to the risk of escalation amid increasing attacks. The advisory was issued following recent attacks by Yemen’s Houthis on ships in the Red Sea and on Israel, as well as an exchange of fire between armed guards on a ship and attackers in the region. The advisory urged companies to conduct thorough risk assessments and consider the risk of escalation when using armed guards.
The recent wave of attacks has caused some shipping companies to suspend trips through the Red Sea, and industry associations are advising ships to re-evaluate their use of force rules with private maritime security companies. The advisory also warned against turning off AIS tracking transponders, which could complicate rescue efforts if ships get into trouble. The use of armed guards has been a long-standing practice in the region, but the recent escalation in attacks has prompted industry associations to issue this cautionary advisory.
The advisory also emphasized the importance of making a clear distinction between suspected attackers using small arms and forces using more advanced weapons, and recommended against the deployment of armed forces, which could lead to significant escalation. The increasing attacks and complex security situation in the region have led industry associations to urge caution and thorough risk assessment when considering the use of armed security guards.
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