The security situation in the southern Red Sea has deteriorated significantly over the past few days. Houthi forces have further strengthened their position around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, increasing the risks for commercial shipping in the area.
According to recent reports, Houthi forces have in a short period of time captured, among other locations, the port city of Mokha, Perim Island (Mayun) at the narrowest point of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and the Greater and Lesser Hanish Islands. Their presence along Yemen’s western coast and around this important shipping route has therefore expanded further.
UK Maritime Trade Operations and the Joint Maritime Information Center (UKMTO/JMIC) continue to warn of heightened maritime security risks in the region. These risks include not only the possibility of attacks, but also disruptions to navigation systems, such as GNSS spoofing and AIS manipulation. These developments may complicate navigational safety and any search-and-rescue operations.
NNPC Marine Insurance advises members to closely monitor developments and, where possible, avoid transiting the southern Red Sea, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden. If a voyage through this area is unavoidable, we advise members to notify us in good time. This allows us to assess whether additional war risk and/or K&R cover is required and available.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss a planned voyage, please contact our underwriting team at underwriting@nnpc-marine.com.
