Dear Partner,
Following a sharp escalation in Houthi maritime activity targeting Saudi-linked shipping and energy infrastructure, the Red Sea threat envelope has expanded significantly northward toward the Yanbu region. In response, the Joint War Committee (JWC) revised its Listed Areas in late July, extending the northern boundary from 18°N to 25.5°N (excluding Egyptian territorial waters).
Recent Operational Incidents & Key Developments:
Declaration of Blockade (20 July 2026): The Houthis announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, explicitly targeting vessels involved in loading or transporting Saudi oil.
Red Sea Tanker Strikes (22–23 July): Two Saudi oil tankers were targeted by missiles and UAVs, with one vessel struck ~70 NM southwest of Al Shuqaiq, resulting in an onboard fire.
Northward Escalation to Yanbu (27 July – 5 August 2026): Attacks claimed against Yanbu export infrastructure and a missile attack on a Saudi oil tanker off Yanbu confirm the Houthis’ intent and capability to strike far north of traditional Bab el-Mandeb hotspots.
What This Means for Your Fleet: Elevated risk is no longer limited to the southern Red Sea. Vessels calling at Yanbu or transiting Saudi Red Sea ports face heightened operational and war-risk exposure.
Our End-to-End Security Solutions: To protect your crew, safeguard your assets, and ensure full compliance with insurer and Flag State mandates, Diaplous Group recommends a tailored and holistic risk management approach:
Physical Security:
Southbound Transits: Embark an armed security team at Suez and retain them onboard throughout the expanded 25.5°N high-risk zone.
Northbound Transits: Retain your security team onboard all the way to Suez for disembarkation.
DIA.M.ON.D.: Alongside physical armed security, we integrate dynamic 24/7 voyage monitoring, continuous voyage and port risk assessments, bridge-readiness support and crisis management & response tailored to your specific commercial and operational needs.
Reach out to our team to secure risk management support for your upcoming Red Sea voyages at quotation@diaplous.com / 24/7 IOR Quotation: +30 694 838 7330 / 24/7 IOR Operations: +30 694 485 0300
Best regards,
Diaplous Team
