Shipping experts warn that container lines are unlikely to return to the Suez Canal in 2026 following a series of strikes and escalating security risks in the Middle East, prompting carriers to continue using alternative routes such as the Cape of Good Hope.
The attacks, which targeted key maritime and port facilities, have raised insurance premiums and operational risks for vessels transiting the canal — a vital chokepoint connecting the Mediterranean and Red Sea and handling a significant portion of global container traffic.
Industry sources said many carriers are factoring in higher war risk surcharges, potential delays, and the unpredictability of regional hostilities when planning their 2026 schedules. For some shipping lines, rerouting around Africa adds transit time but is viewed as a safer and more predictable option.
The canal authority has reportedly increased security measures and is engaging with international stakeholders to reassure operators, but uncertainty remains a key concern. Analysts expect the ongoing situation to influence freight rates, with shippers likely to face elevated costs on long-haul routes bypassing the Suez.
Market observers noted that while some vessels may return if the situation stabilises, the recent strikes have fundamentally altered risk assessments, making long-term rerouting a probable strategy for many global carriers.