Israeli shipping company Zim has announced an increase in prices for shipping from Asia to the Mediterranean due to “the persistent threat to security in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden following the Yemeni attacks,” the Israeli website Globus reports. The decision reflects rising tensions in the region and its implications for international trade.

In response to threats emanating from Yemen, Zim decided to change the routes of its ships. Instead of passing through Bab el-Mandeb and the Suez Canal, the company's ships will now bypass Africa. This change in routes will result in significantly longer transit times, which is expected to add up to 18 days to normal delivery times.

Additional travel time will inevitably increase shipping costs. The company estimates this price increase will add between $20 and $100 to the cost of each container shipped.

Zim emphasizes that the problem with threats in the region affects not only their company, but also the entire shipping business operating in the region, and many other companies have taken similar measures. The company calls on the international community and parties responsible for freedom of navigation to become more actively involved in solving this problem.

The Israeli carriers' decision was met with satisfaction in Yemen, where it was a key goal.