Ambrey has issued a threat circular regarding the Israel-Iran conflict following US intervention, reports Safety4sea.
High Risk to Israel and US-Affiliated Shipping
Ambrey has reported that since the US military operations began, five publicly US-affiliated merchant ships have departed the Arabian/Persian Gulf, while none without US affiliation have entered. Additionally, at least five merchant ships destined for the Gulf either turned back or delayed their arrival, including two without US affiliation, indicating broader market concerns. Several US-flagged vessels have since gathered in UAE territorial waters.
Although the threat to the Strait of Hormuz remains non-specific, it is more likely that any closure declared by Iran would target certain affiliations rather than a full blockade, as a complete closure would harm Iran’s relations with neighbors and disrupt the global economy, including its partners, making it an unnecessary move. Furthermore, no combat area designation has been made that would broadly disrupt shipping.
In the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, Ambrey assesses that the Houthis have lacked viable targets, explaining the current absence of incidents; however, they are expected to resume targeting US-affiliated ships when opportunities arise, though few such vessels transit the area. According to Ambrey’s 18th June Threat Circular on the Red Sea Crisis, only one publicly US-affiliated merchant ship has passed through Bab al Mandab since the US-Houthi ceasefire on May 6th.
Furthermore, in Israel, no merchant ships have been damaged, but shipping operations have been disrupted during port activities. Attacks on port cities have triggered alarms, temporarily suspended operations, and prompted crews to take shelter, with port activities typically resuming within an hour. Additionally, offshore gas facilities in Israel have suspended operations temporarily.
During attacks on port cities, port alarms have sounded, operations temporarily suspended and crews were advised to take shelter. Operations can resume within an hour of the alarms sounding. Gas facilities offshore Israel suspended operations.
- Affiliation checks against the Iran target profile: Ambrey recommends a thorough affiliation check as part of a transit risk assessment is performed for Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Arabian/Persian Gulf, Gulf of Aden and southern Red Sea voyages. Ambrey continues to adjust these as per the developing intent and threat.
- Vessels strongly affiliated with the target profile are advised to avoid the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Arabian/Persian Gulf, Gulf of Aden and southern Red Sea where possible.
If the company is in these regions, it would be advised to limit aggregate risk, by people, hull, and value to an acceptable level. - Ship Security Assessments: Merchant shipping assessed to be at heightened risk is advised to carry out Ship Security Assessments tailored to the threat, and to implement recommended and proportionate ship protection measures before sailing.
- Bridge support: Unarmed advisors to prepare and reassure crew and assist with military liaison. Digital operations can also support with route planning, voyage preparation, and keep the bridge and shore staff informed of any changes in risk while enroute.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Safety4sea
