The resumption of direct shipping of vehicles to Israeli ports from East Asia via the Suez Canal and the Red Sea is expected in the coming months, pending stability in the region. This could provide a competitive advantage to vehicle importers by reducing shipping time and costs. However, the decision to unload directly in Israel still depends on insurance rates. The EU has extended the mandate of its naval patrol force in the Red Sea region until 2026. The resumption of shipping to Eilat port, the previous main import gateway, is still uncertain.