ALBAWABA - In a noteworthy move raising eyebrows among industry observers, the Chinese maritime giant COSCO has reportedly decided to suspend its shipping services to Israel.
This announcement, disclosed by Israeli financial news outlet Globes on Sunday, comes at a time of increased tensions in the region, with disruptions in the Red Sea attributed to attacks by Houthi militants backed by Iran and active in Yemen.
While the specific reasons for COSCO's suspension of shipments to Israel remain undisclosed, the decision assumes significance due to the strategic importance of maritime routes in the area. The Red Sea functions as a vital maritime corridor, linking the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean through the Suez Canal and playing a pivotal role in international trade.
Despite operating one of the world's largest container fleets, COSCO has refrained from releasing an official statement regarding the suspension. Representatives from the company's Israeli offices have chosen not to comment on the matter. Meanwhile, Israeli port authorities have acknowledged the report, stating that they are currently investigating the situation.
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