ISTANBUL

Danish shipping giant Maersk announced Tuesday that it will pause operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden over a recent series of Houthi attacks.

"An investigation into the incident is ongoing and we will continue to pause all cargo movement through the area while we further assess the constantly evolving situation," it stated.

After an earlier pause in operations, the firm decided to resume them on Dec. 24 after a multinational security initiative deployed its forces against attacks.

The firm said on Tuesday: "In cases where it makes most sense for our customers, vessels will be rerouted and continue their journey around the Cape of Good Hope.

"We remain committed to minimising the impact on our customers’ supply chains and will continue to keep you updated on the situation."

Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebel group, officially known as Ansar Allah, has significantly stepped up its involvement in the conflict in the Gaza Strip.

The group has warned that it will attack all Israeli-bound ships in the Red Sea, one of the world's most frequently used sea routes for oil and fuel shipments, in a bid to support Palestinians as they face Israel's aggression and siege in Gaza.

Several of the world's largest container companies have suspended their operations in the region.

Amid the Houthi attacks, the US announced the creation of a multinational mission to counter them.

In a statement, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the escalating attacks threatened the free flow of commerce, endangered innocent mariners, and violated international law.