On the 18th, Hamas declared that Israel had unilaterally ended the ceasefire, accusing the Israeli government of overturning the ceasefire agreement and putting Israeli detainees in Gaza at unknown risk. Israel resumed its offensive actions in Gaza, potentially escalating maritime security concerns across the Middle East.

According to maritime security firm Ambrey Analytics, after negotiations to extend the “first phase” of the ceasefire failed, Israel halted humanitarian aid and electricity supply to Gaza, bringing the ceasefire to an end. In response, the Houthis reinstated their shipping ban on Israeli-owned vessels and those flying the Israeli flag.

Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi stated:

“American aircraft carriers and warships will be our targets. As long as U.S. aggression continues, the navigation ban will also apply to Americans.”

The situation grew more complex with U.S. involvement. On Saturday, the U.S. resumed military strikes against Houthi positions, prompting retaliation from the group, which launched three attacks on U.S. aircraft carriers in the Red Sea.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric towards Iran, stating on Monday:

“From now on, every bullet fired by the Houthis will be considered a bullet fired by Iran’s weapons and leadership. Iran will be held accountable and face consequences.”

Iran responded through its UN ambassador, warning that:

“Any act of aggression will have severe consequences, and the U.S. will bear full responsibility.”

Maritime security experts anticipate increased risks for commercial vessels, particularly those associated with Israel, the U.S., or the UK. Following the end of the ceasefire, Israel’s Ashkelon and Ashdod ports are also expected to face renewed threats of rocket fire and stray missiles.

According to Ambrey’s assessment, the Houthis are “highly likely to resume military operations targeting Israeli military bases and the Port of Eilat.” The group is also expected to target ships and companies engaging in trade with Israel.

Industry analysts predict rising risks in the Persian Gulf/Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea, especially as U.S. pressure on Iran intensifies. The likelihood of targeted "attacks" and vessel seizures is expected to further undermine maritime security in these regions.

Ambrey recommends thorough background checks for vessels transiting affected areas and advises strengthening security measures, including deploying additional armed security teams and conducting comprehensive ship security assessments.