Maersk: Red Sea shipping ‘disruption’ effects spread globally
Denmark’s shipping giant AP Moller-Maersk says “disruption” to its routes via the Red Sea has now extended beyond the Middle East and Europe to its entire global network.
Shipping groups have diverted cargo vessels around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope since December to avoid attacks by Yemen’s Houthi militia in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, with the longer voyage times pushing freight rates far higher and delivery times taking months longer.
“The cascading impact of these disruptions extends beyond the primary affected routes, causing congestion at alternative routes and transshipment hubs essential for trade with Far East Asia, West Central Asia, and Europe,” Maersk said in a statement.
“Ports across Asia – including Singapore, Australia, and Shanghai – are experiencing delays as ships reroute and schedules are disrupted, caused by ripple effects from the Red Sea.”
The Houthis have been attacking ships since November in what they say is a campaign of solidarity with the besieged Palestinians of Gaza.
Drones target Iraq base housing US-led coalition: Report
Two attack drones were launched against a military base in Iraq where US and international forces are stationed in Anbar province.
“One drone was shot down outside the [Ain al-Assad] base by defence systems, and the second exploded inside the base without causing any injuries or damage,” an unnamed security official told AFP news agency.
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an alliance of Iran-backed armed groups, has carried out more than 175 rocket and drone attacks against US-led troops in Iraq and Syria in recent months.
It says the attacks are in solidarity with the Palestinians during the continuing war in Gaza, demanding an end to the Israeli invasion.
