Why in news?
Amid ongoing attacks by Houthis on ships linked to Israel in the Red Sea, Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev has unveiled an alternative trade route via the Mundra port in Gujarat.
What events are unfolding in the Red Sea?
- Yemen’s Houthi rebels have been targeting ships associated with Israel in the Red Sea as a show of solidarity with Gaza, which has been enduring a sustained military offensive by Israel.
- These attacks have resulted in disruptions to global trade, as approximately 12% of maritime trade traverses through the Red Sea.
- The Red Sea serves as a vital maritime route, connecting the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal.
- To circumvent the danger posed by the attacks, ships have been forced to take alternative routes, such as traveling southward around the African continent and navigating the Cape of Good Hope.
- However, this diversion significantly increases both the costs and the time required for maritime transportation.
What is the alternative route?
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Under this plan, goods would be transported as follows:
- From Mundra to ports in the UAE, such as Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port, by sea.
- Subsequently, they would travel overland through Saudi Arabia and Jordan to reach Israel.
- The feasibility of this land corridor was enhanced by the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020, aimed at normalizing ties between Israel and certain Arab states.
- The majority of the overland transport would be conducted via trucks.
- A similar route may also be utilized in the India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which aims to connect India to Europe through the Middle East.
- However, the final configuration of this project is still under deliberation, and progress has been impeded by the conflict in Gaza.
What are the advantages and drawbacks of the new route?
- The establishment of this land route has been a gradual process rather than a sudden decision.
- According to Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, a London-based Arab news outlet, economic affairs expert Nehad Ismail noted that the concept of the land corridor was initially proposed during the time of the Abraham Accords in 2020, aimed at normalizing ties between Israel and select Arab states.
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Benefits:
- Reduced Time and Costs: The land route is expected to significantly decrease travel time and expenses for Israel.
- Economic Opportunities: The route will generate revenue for Saudi Arabia and Jordan through transport fees and duties.
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Costs:
- Limited Capacity: Trucks have a smaller carrying capacity compared to ships, potentially limiting the volume of trade.
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Dependency on Diplomatic Relations:
- The viability of the route relies on Israel maintaining favorable relations with Saudi Arabia and Jordan, amidst the rapidly evolving dynamics in the Middle East.
Video Credit : The Indian Express
People also ask
Q1: What is the new shipping route in Israel?
Ans: The new shipping route in Israel is the Dubai-Haifa “land corridor,” also referred to as an “express land route.” This route connects Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Israel’s Haifa port. The corridor spans overland through both Saudi Arabia and Jordan, facilitating faster transportation of goods between the two countries. This alternative route has gained attention amid disruptions in traditional shipping routes, prompting shipping companies to explore more efficient and secure options for trade between the UAE and Israel.
Q2: Does Israel have access to Red Sea?
Ans: Yes, Israel does have access to the Red Sea via the Straits of Tiran. The Straits of Tiran serve as Israel’s only access point from the Gulf of Aqaba to the Red Sea. Tiran Island holds strategic importance in this region, as it marks the narrowest section of the Straits of Tiran. These straits are a vital sea passage, providing access to major ports such as Aqaba in Jordan and Eilat in Israel, facilitating maritime trade and transportation in the area.
