Shell Halts Oil Shipments Through Red Sea Due to Attack Fears

Shell has indefinitely suspended ship travel through the Red Sea, a vital route, amid increasing threats from Yemen's Houthi rebels, reports indicate.

The decision follows recent retaliatory strikes by the US and UK against the Houthis, after their attacks disrupted Red Sea maritime traffic. The rebels have shifted their focus to American and British targets.

Following a missile interception by US forces and an attack on a US-owned vessel this week, Shell's move preemptively addresses concerns over potential spills and crew safety.

In a similar move, BP halted its Red Sea oil shipments in December, and Maersk rerouted vessels to avoid the area. Qatar's leadership has expressed concern regarding LNG shipments due to regional instability.

The disruption affects significant global trade through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, prompting diversions around Africa. Shell has yet to make an official statement on the suspension.