Marshall Islands issues security advisory for Israeli ports and nearby areas

Eda Zenic -

The Republic of the Marshall Islands Maritime Administrator issued ship security advisory No. 05-24 regarding the geopolitical conflict in Israel.

The notice was published on 6 August 2024.

Purpose:
This advisory provides updated security guidance due to the ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Middle East, specifically concerning Israeli ports and surrounding regions. It aims to enhance the safety and security of vessels operating in these areas.

1.0 Advice

1.1 Security Levels for Israeli Ports and Waters:

  • Security Level 3:
    For the ports of Haifa, Ashdod, and Ashkelon, including their port limits and territorial waters extending 12 nautical miles from these ports. This level indicates a high risk of security incidents and mandates stringent security measures to mitigate potential threats.
  • Security Level 2:
    For the ports of Eilat, Hadera, Tel-Aviv, and the rest of Israeli territorial waters. This level suggests a moderate risk and requires enhanced security measures, though less stringent than Security Level 3.

1.2 Threat Assessment:

  • Increased Risk:
    There is a heightened threat of collateral damage to merchant vessels operating in or near Israeli waters. This includes risks associated with the geopolitical conflict and potential for unintended impacts on shipping activities.
  • Specific Threats:
    Vessels linked to Israel, the United States, or the United Kingdom are considered at higher risk of targeted attacks. This heightened threat extends to various maritime regions including:
    • Arabian Gulf
    • Strait of Hormuz
    • Gulf of Oman
    • Gulf of Aden
    • Red Sea

1.3 Reporting Procedures:

  • Incident Reporting:
    If a RMI-flagged vessel encounters an incident or observes suspicious activity in the Eastern Mediterranean, it should:
    • Notify the NATO Shipping Centre (NSC) immediately.
    • Report to the US Coast Guard National Response Center (NRC).
    • Activate the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS).
  • Reporting Copies:
    Any incident reports submitted to the NSC or NRC should also be sent to:
    • The 6th Fleet Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping (NCAGS)
    • The Republic of the Marshall Islands Maritime Administrator
  • Mediterranean Reporting Scheme:
    RMI-flagged vessels are encouraged to join the NSC’s Mediterranean Voluntary Reporting Scheme. This involves:
    • Contacting the NSC when entering or leaving the Mediterranean Sea or departing from a Mediterranean port.
    • Preferred reporting format is available online or forms can be downloaded, filled out, and emailed to the NSC.

1.4 Additional Guidance:
For vessels navigating the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, refer to the advice outlined in SSA Nos. 01-24 and 02-24 for further instructions and safety measures.

2.0 Contact Information

Questions or Concerns: Direct any inquiries regarding this advisory to marsec@register-iri.com.