In response to the recent NATO military operations in Yemen, Dryad Global advises all clients to suspend their operations in the Red Sea region for the ensuing 72 hours.
The situation escalated with NATO forces launching airstrikes against Houthi targets, following a series of aggressive actions by the Houthi rebels. These hostilities date back to 19 November 2023, starting with the hijacking of the commercial vessel, Galaxy Leader. Since then, there have been over 27 verified attacks by Houthi forces on commercial maritime operations.
Last night's military engagement, distinct from Operation Prosperity Guardian, warrants caution. The full impact and effectiveness of these airstrikes are still being assessed. In the interim, there is a heightened risk of Houthi forces seeking immediate retribution by targeting accessible vessels within their vicinity.
Given these developments, Dryad Global strongly recommends that clients refrain from entering or operating in the Red Sea near Yemen and the Gulf of Aden for a minimum of 72 hours. This precautionary measure is crucial for ensuring the safety of personnel and assets until the situation stabilizes and a clearer assessment is available.