Some vessels not only passed safely but also traced an enchanting trajectory.

The escalating tension between Houthis and the United States, the UK, and other countries, coupled with the current polarized situation in the passage of commercial ships through the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab , raises the question of whether it is safe for navigation. Matic Express, through continuous data tracking, provides an analysis for everyone today!

On January 7th, local time, Mohamed Ali al-Houthi, a high-ranking leader of the Houthis, stated that as long as vessels declare “(VL NO CONTACT ISRAEL),” they will not be attacked. Subsequently, the Houthis provided detailed guidelines for the safe passage of commercial ships through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, citing specific examples. Read more:Breaking News! Red Sea Crisis: Houthis Reveal Crucial Turning Point

According to the latest tracking data: on the morning of January 11th, at least 8 vessels have safely passed or are planning to pass through the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait after declaring “VL NO CONTACT ISRAEL” in their ship documentation, in accordance with the requirements of the Houthis.

In addition, three ships successfully navigated through the Strait.

1、AFRICA SUN（IMO 9359105）

2、PALERMO （ IMO 9168207）

3、XIN HE LU 1（ IMO:9139907）

Data shows that the container ship “KOTA HAKIM” under PIL successfully navigated through the Bab al-Mandab Strait in just one week, even achieving a magical return journey between ports in the region, which is truly astonishing!

The declaration by Houthis, stating “VL NO CONTACT ISRAEL,” could potentially result in the shipping market being divided into two categories: companies that can navigate through the Bab al-Mandab Strait and those that cannot. Neutral or regional shipping companies might gain an advantage in safely passing through the Strait, while some European and American companies may need to either attempt passage with AIS closed under U.S. military escort or take a detour around the Cape of Good Hope.

In the current tense geopolitical environment, the passage situation through the Bab al-Mandab Strait is being closely monitored.

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