--- title: Maritime Security Threat Advisory – 10 March 2025 description: Stay updated on maritime security threats in the Red Sea, Syria, and West Africa, plus trends in global maritime crime and drug trafficking. image: https://channel16.dryadglobal.com/hubfs/Dryad%20Global%20MSTA-10%20Mar%202025.jpg --- ###### 3 min read # Maritime Security Threat Advisory – 10 March 2025 By: [ Dryad Global ](https://channel16.dryadglobal.com/archive/author/dryad-global) on March 13, 2025 at 2:15 PM [Maritime Security](https://channel16.dryadglobal.com/archive/tag/maritime-security) [Security](https://channel16.dryadglobal.com/archive/tag/security) [risk assessment](https://channel16.dryadglobal.com/archive/tag/risk-assessment) - [**](https://twitter.com/GlobalDryad) - [**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/dryad-global/) - [**](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZSIjPkeq7iDcsj4r9TF9mg?sub_confirmation=1) ![Featured Image](https://channel16.dryadglobal.com/hubfs/Dryad%20Global%20MSTA-10%20Mar%202025.jpg) The maritime security landscape remains highly dynamic, with persistent threats affecting global shipping lanes. This week’s **Dryad Global Maritime Security Threat Advisory (MSTA)** highlights key developments in the **Red Sea, Syria, and West Africa**, along with an overview of global maritime crime trends. **Red Sea: A Fragile Calm with Underlying Risks** After a **temporary decline in Houthi attacks**, tensions in the **Red Sea and Gulf of Aden** are once again on the rise. The **Houthis have issued an ultimatum to Israel**, threatening to resume attacks on commercial shipping if humanitarian aid to Gaza is not reinstated by **11 March 2025**. This follows a **significant interception on 12 February 2025**, where the **Yemen Coast Guard seized an Iranian-bound dhow** carrying a **40-foot container filled with advanced military equipment**—including **cruise missile components, reconnaissance drones, and jamming devices**. The find reinforces long-standing concerns over Iran’s continued support for the Houthis despite **NATO and Israeli efforts to disrupt supply lines**. With the Houthis adapting their logistics networks and maintaining operational readiness, **shipping companies transiting the Red Sea should reassess their risk profiles** and ensure robust security protocols.   **Syria: Commercial Port Activity Declines Amid Regional Instability** The ongoing conflict in Syria has led to **significant disruptions in maritime traffic** at the ports of **Latakia and Tartus**. Although there are no confirmed reports of direct attacks halting port operations, the situation remains precarious. Key challenges include: • **Increased curfews** and restrictions impacting port access. • **Diminished workforce availability** due to conflict-related displacement. • **Potential targeting of port infrastructure** in ongoing regional hostilities. Vessels planning operations in Syrian waters are **advised to implement heightened security measures** and minimize movement beyond port premises.   **West Africa: Piracy & Smuggling Trends** The Gulf of Guinea remains a focal point for maritime security threats, with piracy incidents fluctuating across the region. Dryad Global’s latest intelligence highlights **concerning trends in West Africa**, including: • **Hijackings and kidnappings** along key shipping routes. • **Drug smuggling operations** linked to organized crime groups. • **Increased use of uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs)** for illicit maritime activity. While regional security efforts have yielded **a 42% reduction in piracy incidents over the past two years**, recent **spikes in armed robbery incidents** underscore the need for **continuous vigilance and threat assessment**.   **Global Drug Seizures on the Rise** This week’s **MSTA also spotlights multiple high-profile drug seizures**, emphasizing the growing role of maritime trafficking in the global narcotics trade: • **695 drug packages seized in Colon Port**, Panama, from a Surinamese container en route to Belgium. • **463 packages of cocaine intercepted off the coast of Peravia**, Dominican Republic. • **Cocaine worth $15 million discovered by divers at the bottom of the Baltic Sea**, highlighting new smuggling tactics. As drug cartels refine their trafficking methods, port authorities worldwide are intensifying their **screening and security measures** to combat maritime smuggling.   **Key Takeaways for Maritime Operators**   **Red Sea:** The risk of **Houthi attacks remains a concern**—shipping companies should **monitor geopolitical developments closely** and adjust transit plans accordingly. **Syria:** **Port operations in Latakia and Tartus face disruption**—vessels should adopt **enhanced security protocols** when operating in the region. **West Africa:** While piracy incidents have declined, **armed robbery and hijackings persist**—operators should continue **risk-based voyage planning** and consider **onboard security measures**. **Drug Trafficking:** With **new smuggling routes emerging**, shipping companies must **prioritize cargo security and compliance checks** to mitigate reputational and legal risks. As maritime threats continue to evolve, **Dryad Global remains committed to providing intelligence-driven insights** that empower the shipping industry to **navigate global security challenges effectively**. For the latest updates, **subscribe to our Maritime Security Threat Advisory (MSTA)** and ensure your operations remain **resilient in an increasingly complex security environment**. 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