South Africa’s Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) says it is ready to support vessels navigating around the continent as escalating tensions in the Middle East disrupt major global shipping routes. The conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has raised security concerns along critical maritime corridors, prompting several shipping companies to change course.
SAMSA CEO Dennis Mqadi said the authority is prepared to assist ships passing along South Africa’s coastline by providing navigational guidance, maritime monitoring and safety information to ensure safe and efficient transit.
Major global shipping companies, including Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM, have suspended sailings through the Suez Canal and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, citing increased risks following recent military strikes and growing instability near the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for global oil and cargo shipments.
With traditional routes through the Red Sea considered unsafe, many vessels are now rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope, sailing along Africa’s east coast before heading north through the Atlantic toward Europe. The alternative route significantly increases travel distance and can extend shipping times by up to two weeks, raising concerns about global trade disruptions.
Source: Newstimehub
