Container carriers have begun reopening services through the Suez Canal and Red Sea, but new threats from Houthi rebels underline continuing risks, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.

CMA CGM has restored two regular services, following transits by the 23,000-TEU CMA CGM Jacques Saade and 15,536-TEU CMA CGM Adonis since Christmas. Maersk has also resumed operations, sending 6,200-TEU Maersk Denver north through Bab el Mandab on January 12 and announcing the reopening of its US-India route via the corridor.

Despite these moves, traffic remains depressed. Suez Canal transits in the fourth quarter of 2025 were 19 per cent lower than in 2023 and 45 per cent below 2024, with container volumes yet to recover. The last attack occurred on September 29, when MV Minervagracht was struck.

On January 15, Houthi leader Abdel Malek Al Houthi warned of reconnaissance ahead of attacks on what he described as Israeli and Zionist positions in Somaliland. Analysts said the threats could also extend to Emirati and US sites across the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Reports suggest Emirati forces have withdrawn from several Red Sea islands but retain a presence in Assab, Berbera and Bosaso. Saudi-backed Yemeni forces have consolidated control of Socotra, where intelligence sites may continue to operate.

The Houthis remain aligned with Iran but have suffered losses among their leadership. Analysts said confidence has been shaken, yet the group continues to pose a threat to maritime security, particularly with US naval forces now deployed to the region.