The US is launching a multi-national security initiative – Operation Prosperity Guardian – to protect shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden from attacks by Houthi militia.

As Houthi militia in Yemen step up attacks on shipping in the Red Sea the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the World Shipping Council (WSC) have called for urgent action.

MSC, CMA CGM, Maersk, and Hapag-Lloyd have all paused their vessels transiting the Red Sea and are rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope as Houthi militia step up attacks on commercial shipping.

As attacks on commercial shipping the Red Sea see the region becoming a “no go” region for vessels opinion writer Michael Grey calls for action.

Hansa Tankers vessel was passing through the Bab-el-Mandeb when it was hit by the missile. The vessel reported damage and a fire on board the vessel but no casualties at this time.

The situation in the Red Sea is a worrying development for international shipping and trade. The US-led initiative to form a multinational naval force could help to deter further attacks and ensure the safe passage of vessels.

A major increase in the number of large container ships over the next two years will inevitably lead to an increase in casualties according to the forward-looking statement in Allianz Global’s annual Shipping and Safety Review.

A crisis in the international salvage response system could leave the maritime industry exposed without the possibility of dealing with certain types of casualties.

The boxship ONE Orpheus has been resumed its voyage after it collided with a bridge in the Suez Canal following a rudder failure.

At least 12 container vessels have diverted from transiting through the Red Sea to avoid potential attacks by Houthi militia taking the much longer route via the Cape of Good Hope, according to analyst Alphaliner.