Red Sea ship hijacking delivers a warning on supply chain risks

Japan-operated vessel reportedly in Yemen; Suez still vital despite threat

20231121 houthi fighter

A Houthi fighter stands on the Galaxy Leader cargo ship in the Red Sea in this photo released by the militants on Nov. 20. (Houthi Military Media via Reuters)

AKIRA KITADO and RYOHTAROH SATOH, Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- The seizure of a cargo vessel in the Red Sea has rekindled concern over a long-standing threat to Asia's supply chains, as the Israel-Hamas war rages near a crucial choke point for international shipping.

Analysts and companies note, however, that there are no easy alternative routes and that for now, many ships are likely to continue plying those waters despite the risks.

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