Maersk prepares to resume operations in the Red Sea

Maersk announced yesterday that it is preparing vessels to resume transit via the Suez Canal for both eastbound and westbound directions. 

PHOTO: A Maersk's container ship passing through the Suez Canal. Getty Images

The Danish shipping firm issued an advisory stating that the reinforced security measures by the Operation Prosperity Guardian (OPG) have prompted the firm to restart operations in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region. 

The OPG, a multi-national security initiative led by the US, was launched last week to assist vessels in safely navigating the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden regions through the Suez Canal.

With the OPG initiative in operation, we are preparing to allow vessels to resume transit through the Red Sea both eastbound and westbound, the Maersk advisory mentioned. 

The shipping firm added that it is currently finalising plans for the first vessels to transit via the Suez Canal.

Maersk cautioned that despite enforced security measures, overall risks were not eliminated. It also stated that it would re-evaluate the situation and initiate diversion plans if the situation deteriorates further.

Maersk was one of the first among several shipping firms to announce that they would pause operations in the Red Sea last week. The announcement came amid heightened tensions due to the Houthi militia’s attacks on the Red Sea.

By Manjula Nair

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