MARAD: Threats in Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea

The U.S. Maritime Administration has issued advisories addressing the threats in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.

Geographic Locations: Southern Red Sea, Bab el Mandeb Strait, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.

Threat Types: Houthi Attacks, Piracy, Armed Robbery, and Kidnapping for Ransom.

Overview:

Commercial vessels navigating the Southern Red Sea, Bab el Mandeb Strait, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean face significant security threats from Houthi attacks, piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping for ransom. These threats affect international shipping lanes and pose risks to vessels from numerous nations.

Specific Threats:

Houthi Attacks: Since November 1, 2023, there have been at least 88 Houthi attacks, including UAV, USV, missile attacks, small arms fire, explosive boat attacks, and illegal boardings. The Houthis also attempted to divert vessels, posing direct and collateral risks.
Piracy/Armed Robbery/Kidnapping: Though there are no specific threats currently against U.S.-flagged vessels, piracy remains a general threat, with six incidents of boarding or hijacking reported since November 2023. Pirates have used captured vessels as motherships, with some attacks occurring up to 960 nautical miles off Somalia.

Guidance for Commercial Vessels:

AIS Transponders: U.S.-flagged vessels should consider turning off AIS transponders when navigating these areas, as active transponders may increase the risk of being targeted. However, the decision rests with the vessel Masters based on safety concerns.
Voyage Planning: Coordinate with U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and follow their recommendations. Avoid duplicating previous voyage routes, consider transiting during darkness, and remain distant from Yemen’s coastline.
Armed Security: Vessels transiting these high-risk areas may deter threats by employing armed security details. Companies and vessel Masters should assess associated risks and establish clear use of force guidelines.
Response to Threats: If hailed by Houthis or pirates, U.S.-flagged vessels should not comply with directions that compromise safety. In the event of an attack, crew members should relocate to safe spaces, and vessels should take evasive actions.
Communication and Reporting: Maintain communication with NAVCENT NCAGS and UKMTO, especially when entering high-risk waters. Report any suspicious activities or incidents immediately to appropriate naval forces.

Additional Precautions:

Yachts and Pleasure Craft: The U.S. Government strongly advises against the operation of yachts or pleasure craft in these areas due to high risks of capture.
Compliance with Regulations: U.S.-flagged vessels must adhere to U.S. Coast Guard directives for operating in high-risk waters, including those outlined in Maritime Security Directive 104-6 (Rev 8).

These advisories remain active, with specific guidelines and reporting channels to ensure the safety of maritime operations in these volatile regions. The advisories are effective until February 12, 2025.