A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has led to a Houthi statement halting attacks on most vessels in the Red Sea, but shipping analysts caution against expecting an immediate return of container lines to the Suez Canal.

Shipping analyst Drewry warned that carriers are unlikely to reroute through the Red Sea until there is absolute certainty the threat of attacks has been eliminated, a process expected to take “months rather than weeks.”

CMA CGM clarified that its recent use of the Suez Canal was for a single ad hoc call and not a full-scale return. Carriers also face challenges in rescheduling services and adapting to new alliances set to begin soon. Additionally, the risk of overcapacity and uncertain global demand, exacerbated by potential U.S. tariffs, further discourages a swift return to the Red Sea route.