Japanese shipping firms are changing the routes of their ships to avoid the Red Sea, where Yemen's anti-government Houthi group has been attacking passing vessels.

Nippon Yusen, a Japanese firm also known as NYK Line, and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines have temporarily altered the course of their vessels to and from Europe to avoid the Red Sea, citing the possibility that those with links to Israel may be targeted by the Houthis. They are sending their vessels around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, or K Line, is also temporarily rerouting its vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, as well as shifting to routes through North America.

Ocean Network Express, a container carrier jointly operated by the three shippers, has also avoided transits through the Red Sea and switched to other routes, including the one around the Cape of Good Hope.

The Red Sea is the shortest waterway to connect Asia and Europe via the Suez Canal.

Concern is rising that the rerouting of commercial vessels may result in delayed cargo shipments and higher transportation costs.