Maritime Security Threat Advisory – Global Risk Update 12 May 2025

As global geopolitical tensions continue to shape the maritime security landscape, Dryad Global’s latest Maritime Security Threat Advisory (MSTA) provides critical insights into the most pressing developments affecting commercial shipping and offshore operations worldwide.

Red Sea & Gulf of Aden: Ceasefire with Limitations

An Omani-brokered ceasefire between the United States and Yemen’s Houthi forces was announced on 6 May, bringing a temporary halt to U.S. airstrikes. While the agreement covers U.S. naval and commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, it explicitly excludes Israeli shipping—a significant loophole given ongoing tensions.

Israel has since advised civilians to evacuate port cities including Hodeidah, Ras Isa, and Salif, suggesting further conflict is imminent. Despite the ceasefire, Dryad Global maintains its elevated risk rating in the region. Houthi forces retain both the capability and potential intent to resume attacks—particularly if U.S.-Iran nuclear talks collapse. This ceasefire may be more symbolic than strategic, likely aligned with President Trump’s impending visit to Saudi Arabia on 13 May.

India-Pakistan: Escalation with Maritime Risk Potential

Following a major terrorist attack in Kashmir on 22 April, border skirmishes between India and Pakistan rapidly escalated into aerial combat involving fighter jets, drones, and missile strikes. Although a U.S.-mediated ceasefire was achieved by 10 May, the conflict remains fluid.

While no direct naval engagement has yet occurred, both nations have deployed naval assets and conducted live-fire exercises within their respective Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). The risk of escalation into naval conflict is real—potentially paralysing commercial shipping in the region. Moreover, hybrid threats are already surfacing: on 9 May, hackers temporarily seized the Karachi Port Trust’s social media, spreading disinformation about Indian airstrikes. As both nations continue to engage in information warfare, cyberattacks on port infrastructure remain a credible threat.

Global Piracy & Robbery Trends

Recent weeks have seen a spike in armed robbery and piracy incidents in the following regions:

• Singapore Strait: Six ships were hit in early May, continuing a troubling pattern of opportunistic thefts.

• ReCAAP ISC: Reported four armed robbery incidents from 29 April to 5 May.

• West Africa & Indian Ocean: While overall trends show a decrease in hijackings, approaches and attempted attacks remain prevalent.

A particularly concerning case involved crewmembers arrested in connection with a pirate attack on their own vessel, highlighting the need for thorough background checks and onboard security protocols.

Drug Interdiction Operations Intensify

Authorities across the Americas have made major seizures, further demonstrating the intersection between maritime routes and transnational crime:

• Puerto Cabello, Venezuela: A massive drug shipment was seized offshore.

• Colón, Panama: Over 1,000 packages of suspected narcotics intercepted.

• Ecuador: Police seized more than 500kg of cocaine and arrested seven suspects.

• Santa Marta, Colombia: Over a tonne of cocaine was found disguised as curry powder.

• Australia: Authorities intercepted a smuggling boat carrying an estimated $400 million in cocaine.

These operations underscore the increasing sophistication of trafficking networks, as well as the importance of international coordination in securing global trade routes.

Strategic Defence & Naval Exercises

• NATO concluded Dynamic Mongoose 2025, a high-intensity anti-submarine warfare exercise showcasing allied interoperability.

• European task forces have expanded joint efforts in the Mediterranean, reflecting growing concerns over Russia’s naval posture.

• The UK announced its largest-ever sanctions package against “shadow tankers,” targeting oil smuggling and sanction evasion networks.

Maritime Threat Intelligence That Powers Operational Decisions

In today’s volatile maritime environment, Dryad Global’s threat advisory is an essential tool for understanding and mitigating risk. From geopolitical flashpoints to piracy hotspots and organised crime networks, we provide situational awareness that empowers smarter, faster decisions.

📩 Subscribe to our weekly MSTA to stay ahead of emerging risks: 

📬 For tailored risk analysis or press enquiries, contact us at: sales@dryadglobal.com