In the past month, there have been multiple attacks on ships in the Gulf of Aden originating from Yemen. Just last week, Houthi rebels from Yemen launched an attack on the container ship “MSC Darwin.” Recent incidents indicate that the rebels are capable of effectively carrying out attacks throughout the entire Gulf of Aden. Commercial maritime traffic has decreased by about two-thirds.
While the attacks are primarily targeting ships from Israel, the United Kingdom, and the United States, there remains an elevated risk for all maritime traffic. According to reports from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the attacks are mainly focused on the Red Sea between Yemen and Eritrea, where ships travel along the coast, and attacks in the wider Gulf of Aden or the Indian Ocean have so far been limited.
If it is necessary to sail through the Gulf of Aden, we refer you to our circular of January 5, 2024, for prevention advice. Additionally, we advise you to contact MSCHOA in a timely manner as part of Operation Aspides by EUNAVFOR. A copy of the guidelines is available via the following link.
