In recent months, the Association of German Shipowners (VDR) and several German shipping companies have received threatening emails from the Yemeni Houthi rebels.
As announced by the VDR, these threats are directed against ships calling at Israeli ports, as well as against those passing through the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Gulf of Aden, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. Regardless of their location, ships with supposed links to Israel are considered potential targets.
To avoid serious attacks and possible consequences for ships and crews, German shipping companies continue to divert their ships around the southern tip of Africa. This detour takes almost two weeks longer and causes high costs.
The Houthi rebels obviously have well-researched email addresses, as the threats were also sent to individual contacts. These are targeted attempts at intimidation. It underlines that the risk to shipping remains high. We take these threats very seriously and are in constant contact with our members and the security authorities.
…said Irina Haesler, member of the management board and responsible for maritime security policy, VDR.
Since the outbreak of the Israel-Gaza conflict in October 2023, nearly 200 merchant ships have been attacked by Houthis’ rockets, drones and cruise missiles in international waters near Yemen. Several sailors have been killed and numerous ships have been hijacked, sunk or severely damaged.
International missions such as Operation Prosperity Guardian and the EU Operation Atalanta are actively working to ensure the safety of shipping in this region. Securing maritime routes is crucial for Europe to ensure security of supply.
