LONDON: Oil giant BP has decided to suspend all oil shipments through the Red Sea due to recent attacks on vessels by Houthi fighters. The move comes in response to the “deteriorating security situation” in the region, and reflects growing concerns over the safety of shipping routes.
Several freight companies have also taken similar actions after falling victim to attacks by Houthis. Evergreen Line, one of the world’s largest shipping firms, has announced a complete suspension of its container ship journeys via the Red Sea “until further notice.”
The Red Sea serves as a vital route for oil, fuel, and consumer goods shipments globally. Houthis, who have declared their support for Hamas, claim to target ships bound for Israel using drones and rockets.
BP stated, “The safety and security of our people and those working on our behalf is BP’s priority. In light of the deteriorating security situation for shipping in the Red Sea, BP has decided to temporarily pause all transits through the Red Sea. We will keep this precautionary pause under ongoing review, subject to circumstances as they evolve in the region.”
Major shipping companies, including Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, and CMA-CGM, have also changed their routes or temporarily halted shipments through the region due to the alarming situation. Maersk described a recent “near-miss” incident involving one of its vessels, emphasizing the gravity of the security concerns.
