Yemen Monitor/Newsroom
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has forecast a significant decrease in the number of port visits in the Red Sea and Eastern Mediterranean this season compared to initial expectations.
In response to an inquiry, the association stated that forecasts for port visits have declined by 72% this summer. Shipping companies have canceled trips and altered their routes. The association did not provide absolute figures.
It reported that this development is linked to the security situation in the region. Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who oppose Israel, have been attacking commercial ships passing through Yemeni waters since the outbreak of the conflict in Gaza. The Houthis aim to force an end to Israeli military operations, and threats have been made to launch attacks in the Mediterranean Sea.
Long-term Economic Consequences
CLIA’s director in Germany, Georg Ehrmann, told the German Press Agency that the safety of passengers and crew is the top priority for cruise lines.
Ehrmann added that companies consider the geopolitical situation when planning trips. Customers are also aware of safety measures.
Ehrmann said that ships not reaching ports would have long-term economic consequences. He added: “This particularly affects people on the ground who rely heavily on tourism and port activities.” There are significantly fewer cruise ship trips to ports in Egypt and Cyprus, as an example.
