'All Are Muslims’: The Desperate Message Ships Are Sending To Survive The Red Sea

Last Updated:July 12, 2025, 08:54 IST

Ships in the Red Sea now declare religion and nationality to deter Houthi attacks, as risks rise and insurers hike rates amid ongoing conflict

To avoid being targeted by Houthi rebels, many ships have altered their AIS tracking profiles with visible declarations like “All-Chinese Crew and Management,” “Armed guards on board,” “All Crew Muslim”. (News18)

Ships traversing the Red Sea are now disclosing the religion of their crew in attempts to avoid attacks by Houthi rebels. The rebels, backed by Iran, have intensified their assaults on commercial vessels, prompting some ships to claim all-Muslim crews via their tracking systems.

Shipping Disruptions And Declarations To Deter Attack

This week alone, Houthi rebels have sunk two commercial vessels. Since the onset of their attacks in November 2023, ship traffic through the Red Sea, a vital maritime corridor for oil and goods, has dropped significantly.

The Iran-backed Houthis claim their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict. Their leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, has reaffirmed that any company transporting goods linked to Israel will be targeted and destroyed.

In an attempt to avoid being targeted, many ships have altered their AIS (Automatic Identification System) tracking profiles with visible declarations. These include statements such as “All-Chinese Crew and Management," “Armed guards on board," and “All Crew Muslim." Some explicitly state they have no ties to Israel.

These details have been corroborated through data from Marine Traffic and LSEG.

Security Measures Questioned As Risks Persist

Maritime security sources report that shipowners are going to extraordinary lengths to reduce the risk of attack, though many concede these tactics may offer limited protection.

The Houthis are believed to possess advanced intelligence capabilities. A source noted that both vessels sunk this week had previously docked at Israeli ports within the past year.

Experts now warn that shipping firms must carefully examine all links to Israel, although the threat remains considerable.

Chinese And Russian Vessels Not Spared

Despite earlier assurances from the Houthis, vessels from other major powers have also come under fire. In March 2024, the Chinese-operated tanker Huang Pu was struck by a ballistic missile, according to the US Central Command.

Russian ships involved in trade with Russia have likewise been attacked.

Insurance Costs Soar Amid Heightened Risk

Insurance firm Aon reports that despite a declared ceasefire, the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait are still considered high-risk zones. Aon advises ship operators to maintain vigilant and adaptable security protocols.

In the wake of recent attacks, cargo insurance premiums for the region have doubled, with some insurers temporarily suspending coverage on specific routes.

Location :

Israel

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