While Maersk Line became the first major carrier to fully reinstate a complete service via the Suez Canal this month, subsequently security fears have led to other journeys being diverted.

The Danish operator has confirmed that its Middle East–US East Coast Loop (MECL) is to transit the gateway in both eastbound and westbound directions, with the first eastbound voyage departing Charleston on 10 January and the first westbound sailing leaving Jebel Ali on 15 January.

This decision follows a series of successful trial voyages that demonstrated the practicality of returning to the shorter Suez route. Recent transits by vessels such as Maersk Sebarok and Maersk Denver were completed without incident, providing confidence that current operating conditions allow for a resumption of service.

Maersk has stressed, however, that the regional security environment continues to be monitored closely. The company noted that the continuation of the MECL via Suez will depend on ongoing stability in the Middle East, and it remains ready to reroute vessels if risk levels rise.

However, with Houthi rebels implying that attacks may be back on the horizon, CMA CGM have now rerouted the export legs they were trialling away from Suez. At this point it is unclear whether Maersk will continue the MECL service through the Red Sea region.

Suez Canal volumes were down 86% in the final quarter of 2025 compared with 2023, the gap narrowed to 60% in the first week of this year, suggesting a gradual recovery in confidence, but the situation is seemingly back up in the air. Unique Forwarding will continue to monitor the situation closely.