South Africa’s Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) says it is ready to assist vessels navigating around the African continent as rising tensions in the Middle East disrupt major global shipping routes. The conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has heightened security risks in strategic maritime corridors, forcing several shipping companies to change course.
SAMSA CEO Dennis Mqadi stated that the authority is prepared to provide ships travelling along South Africa’s coastline with navigational guidance, maritime monitoring and safety updates to ensure safe and efficient passage.
Major global shipping companies, including Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM, have suspended sailings through the Suez Canal and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait due to growing security concerns near the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and cargo shipments.
As a result, 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. This detour significantly increases travel distance and can extend shipping times by up to two weeks, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global trade and supply chains.
Source: Newstimehub
