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.
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