Panama: Security advisory for vessels in Middle East conflict zones

The Panama Maritime Authority amended MMN-08/2023, advising all Panama-flagged vessels to avoid transit through areas affected by the Israeli-Hamas conflict, particularly around Israel, Lebanon, and Iran, including the Gaza Strip.

The situation has created significant threats to commercial traffic and necessitates a heightened level of security and preparedness for vessels in these waters.

Key Recommendations for Panama-Flagged Vessels:

Avoid Transiting the Region: The Panama Maritime Administration (PMA) strongly advises vessels to avoid transiting through the region surrounding Israel, Lebanon, and Iran, including the Gaza Strip, due to the increased security risks. The conflict has escalated maritime threats, and vessels should take all possible precautions to ensure the safety of their crew and cargo.
Security Measures for Vessels in the Area: Vessels currently in Israeli and Lebanese ports or transiting through the Middle East are advised to maintain the highest level of vigilance and enhance onboard security to protect both the vessel and crew. Constant communication with port authorities is required to ensure awareness of local security developments.
Implementation of Security Level III: Ships docked at ports in the region should implement security measures equivalent to Security Level III as per their Ship Security Plan, in accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. This heightened security level includes increased surveillance and readiness to respond to potential threats.
Specific Security Actions: The PMA provides a detailed set of actions vessels should take, including:
- Conducting a ship- and voyage-specific threat risk assessment before entering regions where incidents or threats have been reported.
- Reviewing and updating the Vessel Protection Plan and consulting BMP5 (Best Management Practices) for non-piracy threats.
- Maintaining a constant watch on the bridge, especially at night, since small, slow vessels can be difficult to detect on radar.
- Strengthening communication protocols with approaching vessels and not allowing small boats to come near or dock alongside the ship.
- Ensuring strict boarding controls to prevent unauthorized access.
- Installing external lighting and searchlights for nighttime visibility, without compromising the ship’s safe navigation.
Response to GPS Disruptions: Vessels should prepare for possible GPS disruptions that could affect safe navigation in the region. Operators and managers are encouraged to develop contingency plans and ensure crews are aware of the security risks.
Staying Informed and Reporting: Vessels must stay informed by regularly checking local sources, such as ship agents and port authority websites, for the latest safety updates. Any suspicious activities or objects must be immediately reported to local authorities and the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
Communication and Monitoring Requirements: Ships are instructed to keep their Automatic Identification System (AIS) and Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) systems operational unless the captain determines that these systems compromise the vessel’s security. In such cases, ships must report their status to the Panama Maritime Authority every four hours.
Crew Safety: Crews should limit their movements in port areas based on local security advice, and shore leave decisions should consider the prevailing conditions. All communication and safety plans must be reviewed to address any unforeseen incidents.
Incident Reporting: In the event of any security incidents or suspicious activities, the Panama Maritime Authority’s Maritime Ships Security Department must be notified immediately. Vessels should also maintain open communication with relevant authorities on VHF Channel 16 at all times.