Zim has announced measures that include rerouting ships amid threats against Israel-linked vessels in the Red Sea and beyond in a move that could lengthen transit times for its cargoes.

The Haifa-headquartered liner operator said it remains committed to ports in Israel and other parts of the Eastern Mediterranean, with safety protocols.

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“In light of the threat to the safe transit of global trade in the Arabian and Red Seas, Zim is taking temporary proactive measures to ensure the safety of its crews, vessels and customers’ cargo by rerouting some of its vessels,” the New York-listed company said, referring to geography that likely includes the Gulf of Aden that connects the two seas.

“As a result of these measures, longer transit times in the relevant Zim services are anticipated, though every effort is being made to minimise disruptions.”

The moves come amid growing threats to ships linked to Israeli companies since a war erupted between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Yemen-based Houthi militants have threatened attacks on Israel-linked ships and seized Ray Car Carriers’ 5,100-ceu Galaxy Leader (built 2002) and are holding it off Hodeidah.

On Friday, the Eastern Pacific Shipping-owned, 15,300-teu container ship CMA CGM Symi (built 2022) was hit by a suspected Iranian-made kamikaze drone in the Indian Ocean, a US defence official told the Associated Press.

And then on Sunday, Zodiac Maritime’s 20,000-dwt chemical tanker Central Park (built 2015) was boarded, with a US official saying a day later that indications pointed to Somali piracy.

“Zim is closely monitoring the situation to address potential risks and ensure the ongoing safety and efficiency of its operations,” the company said.

“Zim will maintain the highest level of service to its customers.”

A customer advisory by the company said the changes impact its ZMP service linking the Mediterranean to the Pacific.

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