A. P. Moller–Maersk announced that following the December 30 incident involving one of its vessels, Maersk Hangzhou, the ocean carrier will halt all passage through the Red Sea amid continued security threats in the waterway.

"We have made the decision to pause all transits through the Red Sea/Gulf of Aden until further notice," Maersk said in a notice on January 2.

"We appreciate your patience as we navigate this challenging situation."

Maersk said that an investigation into the incident is ongoing, and it will "continue to pause" all cargo movement through the area while the firm further assesses the constantly evolving situation.

"In cases where it makes the most sense for our customers, vessels will be rerouted and continue their journey around the Cape of Good Hope," it said, pointing to the company's diversion and contingency plans.

"This decision has been taken to assure the safety of our seafarers and your cargo on our vessels, which is our utmost priority," Maersk said.