Norwegian transport company Hoegh Autoliners has announced the suspension of maritime transport operations in the Red Sea, following the Norwegian Maritime Directorate’s elevation of the threat level in that region to the highest level.
According to a statement by the company, as reported by Reuters, “We will continue to assess the situation regularly based on recommendations from the relevant authorities and adjust our policies as necessary.”
Hoegh Autoliners specializes in maritime transport for automobiles, trucks, railroad cars, construction equipment, agriculture, mining, small vessels, and industrial machinery, as per Russia Today.
Following the escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza, the Yemeni group “Ansar Allah” (the Houthis) announced that they would carry out attacks on Israeli territory and would not allow ships associated with it to pass through the waters of the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait until the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip ceases.
In response, the United States authorities declared their intention to launch “Operation Guardian of Prosperity” in the Red Sea to ensure freedom of navigation and the security of ships.
In addition to the United States, participants in the operation include Bahrain, Britain, Denmark, Spain, Italy, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, and France.
Due to the increasing incidents of attacks on ships, several companies have announced their intention to temporarily avoid routes through the Red Sea.
Among these companies are the Danish shipping and logistics company “Maersk,” the Belgian shipping company “Euronav,” the French transportation group “CMA CGM,” the German shipping company “Hapag-Lloyd,” and the British oil and gas company “BP.”
