Piracy has resurged in the Indian Ocean due to the diversion of shipping routes from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden to the Cape of Good Hope, primarily caused by aerial attacks from Iran-backed Houthi militants.
Vice Admiral Aurelio De Carolis, Commander-in-Chief of the Italian fleet, discussed these developments while aboard the Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour at Mormugao Port in Goa. He noted that there had been a significant decline in pirate attacks in the Indian Ocean until about two years ago, but the recent shift in shipping traffic has contributed to the reemergence of piracy in the region.
Additionally, Vice Admiral De Carolis praised the Indian Navy’s efforts in combating piracy in the Indian Ocean. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation and coordination for maritime security, particularly in light of the recent challenges posed by piracy.
Meanwhile, Asian ports, including those in China and Singapore, have been facing challenges due to increased backlogs caused by containerships diverting from their usual routes through the Red Sea.
According to Xeneta, since the end of 2023, the long-term contract market average for a 40ft Reefer High Cube (RH) on the trade from North Europe to the Persian Gulf (and Gulf of Oman) has increased significantly, rising by 58% to stand at USD 3570 as of 19 September.