Two vessels operated by CMA CGM, the world’s third-largest container shipping line, have transited the Suez Canal, signalling a potential easing of disruptions caused by the Gaza conflict and Red Sea security risks, the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) said on Tuesday.
According to the authority, the CMA CGM Jacques Saade crossed the canal northbound on its voyage from Morocco to Malaysia, while the CMA CGM Adonis transited southbound. The passages mark a cautious return by major carriers to the strategic waterway after months of diversions.
Since November 2023, many shipping companies have avoided the Suez Canal and the Red Sea, opting instead for longer routes around the Cape of Good Hope, following attacks on commercial vessels by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi militants. The group said the attacks were carried out in solidarity with Palestinians amid the Gaza war.
CMA CGM had previously made only limited transits through the canal when security conditions permitted. The French carrier did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
While shipping lines remain cautious, the SCA noted that no Houthi attacks on vessels have been reported since a fragile ceasefire in Gaza took effect on October 10. This has prompted some operators to reassess the viability of using the Suez Canal, a critical artery for global trade and a major source of foreign currency revenue for Egypt.
A schedule published on CMA CGM’s website also indicates that the company plans to route its India–U.S. INDAMEX service through the Suez Canal starting January, suggesting a gradual restoration of services through the waterway.