international shipping

Despite a ceasefire halting attacks on most Red Sea ships, Yemen's Huthi rebels will continue targeting Israeli vessels, according to a Huthi official. This exclusion of Israeli ships from the deal comes after weeks of intense US strikes on the group, prompted by Huthi attacks on Red Sea shipping in support of Palestinians.

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Vizhinjam International Seaport on May 2, positioning India as a transshipment hub. Developed with Adani Ports, it aims to reduce reliance on foreign ports with its advanced infrastructure and strategic location. The port boasts semi-automation and an AI-powered vessel traffic management system, marking a new era in India's maritime trade.

President Trump announced an immediate halt to US airstrikes on Yemen's Houthis, citing their pledge to stop attacking ships. The ceasefire, brokered with Omani mediation, aims to secure Red Sea shipping routes. Israel, excluded from the deal, remains a Houthi target. The move drew mixed reactions, especially after sensitive military plans were accidentally shared via a group chat.

Huthi rebels in Yemen accused Washington of conducting multiple strikes near Sanaa. The strikes reportedly wounded fourteen people in the Sawan neighbourhood. This follows a Huthi attack on Israel, an ally of the United States. US military action against the Huthis has intensified since March. The US claims to have struck over 1,000 targets in Yemen since then.

A ship named Conscience, carrying aid to Gaza, caught fire near Malta. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported the incident. They claimed a drone strike caused the fire. Maltese authorities confirmed the fire was extinguished. All crew and passengers are safe. The group accused Israel of attacking the vessel. The ship was heading to Gaza to deliver aid.

Omani Foreign Minister announced a ceasefire agreement between the US and the Houthi militia, aiming to de-escalate tensions and ensure safe navigation in the Red Sea. While the Houthis haven't confirmed, they intend to continue attacks on Israel. Despite recent Israeli strikes, analysts doubt air strikes alone will end the conflict, deeming a ground offensive unlikely due to past failures.

Shashi Tharoor welcomed PM Modi in Thiruvananthapuram, celebrating the commissioning of the Vizhinjam International Seaport. This deep-water transshipment port, a public-private partnership, aims to boost India's cargo capacity and reduce reliance on foreign ports. Kerala's CM hails it as a historic moment, with the port already handling significant vessel traffic and integrating into global shipping routes.

Washington reported striking over 1,000 targets in Yemen since mid-March in an air campaign against Huthi rebels, as the UK said Wednesday it carried out a joint strike on drone-making facilities. "UK forces participated in a joint operation with US forces against a Huthi military target in Yemen," the defence ministry said in a statement.

Amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Navy has significantly increased its presence in the Arabian Sea. Naval warships are on high alert, conducting anti-ship and anti-aircraft firing exercises within India's EEZ to demonstrate combat readiness. The Indian Coast Guard is also coordinating with the Navy to enhance surveillance near the Gujarat coast.

Following the government's decision to reduce import duties to 75%, both Scotch and Indian-made blended whisky are set to become more affordable. This move is expected to significantly benefit Indian blenders and multinational companies, potentially leading to increased premiumisation within the Indian alcoholic beverage sector.

Vizhinjam International Seaport is poised for a landmark dedication by Prime Minister Modi, heralding a new phase of growth for south Kerala. The port has already managed a record number of ships and containers since July 2024. With its deep draft and strategic location, Vizhinjam offers a competitive edge, attracting exim cargo and potentially reshaping regional logistics and economic development.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued a stern warning to Iran regarding its support for Yemen's Houthi rebels, promising consequences for providing lethal aid. This follows joint US-UK airstrikes targeting the Houthis, with the UK detailing their April 29 strike on drone manufacturing sites near Sanaa.

A medieval ship has been discovered in Barcelona. The ship was found under the old fish market. It is named Ciutadella I. The ship is from the 15th or 16th century. It is well-preserved due to the damp soil. This discovery provides insights into Barcelona's old port. Archaeologists plan to carefully dismantle and study the ship.

Israel launched airstrikes on Yemen’s Hodeidah port Monday, injuring 21, in retaliation for a Houthi missile that landed near Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport—the first to bypass Israeli defenses. The Houthis vowed further attacks and warned airlines to avoid Israel. The escalation highlights rising regional tensions as Yemen’s Houthis intensify actions in response to Israel’s Gaza offensive.

Malta offered on Sunday to repair an aid ship and send it on its way to Gaza after pro-Palestinian activists said the vessel had been hit by a drone strike. The pro-Palestinian activists had pointed the finger at Israel, which has blockaded the Gaza Strip throughout its military campaign against Hamas, for the attack.