Container carriers Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have issued an update on 26 November 2025 regarding the situation in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait and Suez Canal.

According to the press release, the company reaffirmed that while the Suez route remains the fastest and most sustainable option for Asia–Europe transport, the Gemini alliance will continue to avoid the region due to security concerns.

"Gemini’s ambition has always been to return to a Suez-based East-West network once security conditions in the region permit," says the alliance.

"However, as the safety of crew, vessels and cargo remains our top priority, we currently have no specific timing to change the Gemini East-West network to sailing through the Red Sea," adds the joint statement.

With this announcement, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd aim to address media speculations about resuming Gemini sailings through the Suez Canal.

Both companies clarified that there is no confirmed schedule for reinstating East–West transits via the Red Sea.

Meanwhile, the companies noted that they closely monitor the progress of the Gaza ceasefire and will announce any changes as they occur.

The statement issued by the Gemini partners follows Maersk CEO Vincent Clerc's visit to the Suez Canal Authority this week.

According to a press release by the Canal, Maersk-affiliated vessels will commence returning to transit the waterway "as of early next December as a precursor to the full-capacity return."

The authority and the carrier have signed a strategic partnership agreement during the visit, described as "a crucial step toward the resumption of transit through the Suez Canal."