Since the 14th of November, Ansar Allah (the ‘Houthis’) have threatened to attack Israel-affiliated merchant shipping. The Bab al-Mandab Strait off the coast of Yemen is a pinch point where the Red Sea meets the Indian Ocean. Around 12% Global Shipping and 30% Container traffic passes through the Strait to and from the Suez Canal. Additionally 1/3rd of global oil passes through region, something else to consider when you also think about the current Panama Canal restrictions. Another factor is the importance of the Straits as a gateway to the Suez Canal, which accounts for 5% of Egyptian GDP. The threat to shipping has escalated beyond “Israeli” linked targets to include all major owners / operators. Unlike previous Piracy related events in Red Sea / Gulf of Aden this is a sophisticated military threat and requires a very sophisticated response.
Vessel operators are now considering diverting vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.
Inchcape Shipping Services is well established in Africa, with 14 port offices and a network of carefully selected and vetted partners. Our team of experienced agents offer top-notch support and expertise to vessels when they are in port, covering everything from crew welfare and customs formalities to fuel supply and waste management.
We provide:
- 24/7 availability with a local Inchcape representative.
- Direct liaison with the vessel on all aspects of the call when required.
- Critical local expertise and liaison with managing local authorities.
- Assist with crew logistics, including transport to and from the airport, accommodation, and medical assistance.
- Coordination and facilitation of bunker supplies, supervision and sampling.
Our team are ready to support you in Africa and Mauritius. Please contact us for a prompt PDA on these email addresses:
Mauritius: mruops@issshipping.com
South Africa: dbnops@issshipping.com
Kenya: isskenyaenquiries@iss-shipping.com
Tanzania: youriss.dar@issshipping.com
Nigeria: issnigeria@issshipping.com
Ghana: iss.ghana@iss-shipping.com
Mozambique: Yourissmozambique@issshipping.com
Namibia: wvbops@issshipping.com
Subscribe to receive daily reports on the ongoing situation.