The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have declared a maritime blockade on Israel’s Haifa port, targeting vessels en route or docked there. This escalation shifts their strategy from disrupting Red Sea routes to direct confrontation with Israel, threatening crucial trade connections and heightening regional tensions amid potential international repercussions.
The Israeli government recently approved a maritime transport agreement with Morocco, signed on May 29, 2023. This agreement aims to enhance maritime transport through free competition and mutual cooperation. It covers safety, port access, and taxation, while establishing a joint committee to oversee its implementation amid ongoing regional tensions.
For more than three months, activists have closely followed the cargo ship Kathrin, accusing it of carrying explosives bound for Israel to be used in Gaza. The crew is caught in the middle of the controversy, with a German NGO filing an emergency motion to block the alleged shipment.
The Israeli retaliatory strike against Iran on October 26 was strategic, avoiding Jordanian airspace and targeting key Iranian air defense assets and missile production facilities. With around 100 aircraft involved, the operation may have disrupted critical nodes in Iranian infrastructure, potentially related to their nuclear weapons program.
Human rights groups are closely monitoring the Kathrin, a cargo ship suspected of carrying explosives for Israel. Denied docking privileges in Namibia, the Balkans, and Malta, the vessel is being urged to change course by Amnesty International. Loaded in Vietnam, the ship’s destination and cargo’s intended use remain unclear amid international scrutiny.
Amnesty International is urging European ports to block a cargo ship, Kathrin, believed to be carrying explosives bound for Israel. The organization argues that allowing the vessel to transport these materials violates international regulations. With concerns raised by activists and the United Nations, the urgency to prevent the deadly cargo from reaching Israel is emphasized.
Despite heightened tensions and rocket attacks from Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel’s ports in Haifa are operating normally. The government assures that security measures are in place to protect seaborne trade. With no reported damage, Israeli ports remain open for business, maintaining their reputation as safe and secure facilities. Coordination with the military ensures continuous assessment of the security situation.
In a recent maritime assault, the Houthis employed their new double-hit strategy for the second time in five days, targeting a Greek-owned cargo ship bound for India. The crew lost control of the vessel after a small boat and an aerial attack. This escalation in tactics highlights the need for increased vigilance and coordinated responses to ensure maritime security in the region.
The UKMTO reported an incident 82 nautical miles south of Yemen’s Aden, where Houthi militia, aligned with Iran, have been attacking ships in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Authorities are investigating the incident, as the militants continue launching drone and missile strikes in the region, impacting shipping routes and raising fears of further conflict.
Iranian state media reported activation of air defense against UAVs near Isfahan. Maritime security warns ships to be cautious in Arabian Gulf due to recent UAV activity. Attacks may be in retaliation for Iran’s actions, increasing tensions in the region. British military advises vigilant reporting of suspicious activity at sea.
A maritime convoy carrying undelivered food for Gaza returned to Cyprus after World Central Kitchen aid workers were killed in an Israeli airstrike. The cargo ship, originally carrying 240 tons of food, sailed back to Larnaca, Cyprus, after the deadly attack. The aid operation by WCK was suspended after the killings.
The EU and US are sending ships to Gaza to establish maritime aid routes to bypass Israeli restrictions, which have left Palestinians starving to death. Published on 10 Mar 2024. Click here to share on social media. Link copied!
Yemeni Ansarallah has vowed to attack ships headed to Israel, along with British and American vessels. The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported an “incident” off the coast of Yemen, advising ships to transit with caution. This comes after Ansarallah targeted an American ship, escalating tensions in the region.
