A recent update on January 15, 2024, the operational status of ports in Israel.
Background
On October 7, 2023, a significant escalation occurred as Palestinian militant groups, predominantly Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad launched a major attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip. The assault involved rocket barrages and vehicle-transported attacks directed at Israeli communities resulting in numerous casualties.
In response to this situation, the Israeli government declared a state of emergency and war. Subsequently, the Israeli military initiated a counteroffensive, conducting an extensive aerial bombardment campaign on Gaza, followed by a ground invasion.
Further escalation
The conflict has also imposed a severe maritime security risk in the area. In retaliation to Israel’s attacks on Gaza following the October 7 Hamas attack, the Houthis in Yemen have been targeting ships navigating through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Since then, fears of a further escalation in the Middle East have been troubling the global community. In any case, as of the latest update, the port situation in Israel is as follows:
- Ashkelon
The port is now operating as normal.
- Haifa and Ashdod
Both ports are operating as usual. There are some restrictions in place for vessels carrying hazardous materials (HAZMAT).
- Hadera
Operating as normal.
- Eilat
Due to the latest developments in the Red Sea, there are a limited number of ships calling at this port, but this port is operating as normal.