Maersk Hangzhou, a Singapore‑flagged container ship capable of carrying 14,000 boxes, was hit by missiles and small boats near Yemen, prompting the shipping giant to halt Red Sea sailings for two days.
Attack details and immediate response
According to the report, the assault occurred about 55 nautical miles southwest of Al Hodeidah on Thursday. The crew remained safe and there was no sign of fire on board. Despite the missiles, the vessel stayed fully maneuverable and continued northward toward Port Suez.
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Operational pause
The carrier announced a 48‑hour suspension of all transits through the Red Sea. The pause follows a brief resumption on December 24 after the U.S. launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, a multinational effort to protect shipping near Yemen.
During the suspension, vessels will be rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope, a longer and more expensive path that avoids the Suez Canal corridor. This decision reflects growing concern over the frequency of attacks by the Iran‑backed Houthi militants, who say they act in solidarity with Hamas amid the Gaza conflict.
Impact on global trade routes
The Red Sea serves as a gateway for ships entering the Suez Canal, handling roughly 12 percent of worldwide trade. Disruptions force carriers to choose alternative routes, adding days to journeys and raising freight costs for exporters and importers alike.
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Analysts note that the longer detour around Africa can increase fuel consumption and emissions, a side effect that may attract regulatory scrutiny. Shipping firms also weigh insurance premiums, which have risen in response to the heightened risk environment.
International reactions
British Foreign Secretary David Cameron told Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian that Iran bears responsibility for curbing Houthi attacks, given its historic support for the group. He emphasized the threat to innocent lives and the global economy.
Broader security measures
Operation Prosperity Guardian, launched on December 19, involves more than 20 nations working to secure the maritime corridor. The initiative includes naval patrols, aerial surveillance, and coordination with local authorities to deter future attacks.
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Future outlook
Maersk plans to resume Red Sea sailings after the temporary halt, though officials admit the schedule could shift again if attacks continue.
For now, the focus remains on safeguarding crews and cargo while handling a volatile security environment.