This disruption led to a rerouting of journeys via southern Africa, a longer and more costly alternative to the Suez Canal—the quickest sea route connecting Asia and Europe.
Big shipping firms, including Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, had halted transit through the Red Sea in response to Yemen's Houthi militant group targeting vessels earlier in December.
In a notable development, Maersk announced on Sunday its preparations to recommence shipping operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, citing the deployment of a U.S.-led military operation dedicated to ensuring the safety of commerce in the region.
A spokesperson for Hapag-Lloyd revealed that the company would make a decision tomorrow on its course of action, refraining from providing additional comments. Last week, Hapag-Lloyd had previously stated its intention to redirect 25 ships by the end of the year to avoid the affected area. New updates as the maritime industry navigates through security considerations impacting global trade routes will be followed next days.
