A new study links Middle East conflicts to rising risks for whales off South Africa by altering global shipping routes, researchers told AFP. Since late 2023, rerouted maritime traffic away from the Red Sea and the Suez Canal and around South Africa changes where ships travel, pushing more vessels into habitats used by whales along the country’s southwestern coast. Researchers say this shift substantially increases the likelihood of ship strikes. The region is described as supporting globally significant whale populations while also experiencing busy shipping corridors, which raises the chances of collisions as vessel numbers grow.
The report draws on research presented at an International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting, where scientists and marine conservation stakeholders discuss the consequences of changing routes for sea mammals. Media coverage also notes that environmental scientists and advocates, along with public discussion online, have highlighted maritime-traffic hazards for marine wildlife, including the threat of collisions.
