ZIM diverting ships from Arabian and Red Seas

The last week has seen attacks on three Israel-linked vessels in the Arabian and Red Seas with the hijacking of the Ray Car Carriers vessel Galaxy Leader by Yemini Houthi rebels taking 25 crew hostage, the boxship CMA CGM Symi, part of Eastern Pacific Shipping’s fleet was hit by a drone attack, and Zodiac Maritime-managed tanker Central Park was briefly hijacked in the Gulf of Aden.

Haifa-headquartered and NYSE-listed ZIM confirmed its commitment to serve Eastern Med and Israeli ports. It will, however, be diverting some vessels away from routes through the Red and Arabian Seas, which involve the considerably route around the Cape of Good Hope.

“In light of the threat to safe transit of global trade in the Arabian and Red Seas, ZIM istaking temporary proactive measures to ensure the safety of its crews, vessels, and customers’ cargo by re-routing some of its vessels,” ZIM said.

“As a result of these measures, longer transit times in the relevant ZIM services are anticipated, though every effort is being made to minimise disruptions.”

The company added it was closely monitoring the situation to address potential risks and ensure the ongoing safety and efficiency of its operations.