The recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East, involving Israel, Iran, and the USA, has understandably led numerous maritime authorities and flag administrations to issue urgent alerts. These advisories are crucial for informing ship operators about best practices when their vessels are calling at or transiting through areas of conflict. The primary goal is to ensure the safety of ships, their crews, and cargo while minimizing disruption to global trade.
Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry Recommendations
The Shipping Deputy Ministry of Cyprus emphasizes the current volatility in the region and, in the absence of specific security threats, recommends the following measures for owners, operators, managers, and masters of Cyprus-flagged vessels:
- Increased Vigilance and Communication: Maintain heightened vigilance and close communication with Port and Flag State authorities, as well as local shipping agents, by the ISPS Code requirements. This includes increasing the rigorousness of onboard security measures as necessary to protect the vessel and its crew.
- Frequent Information Checks: Regularly consult local information sources such as vessel agents, local authorities, and Hull and Machinery and Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance providers to obtain the most current and reliable security-related information.
- Case-by-Case Security Assessment: Carefully assess the security situation for each port call or when navigating through territorial waters. Based on these assessments, implement appropriate security measures aboard the vessel to ensure the safety of the vessel and its crew.
- Contingency Planning: Review, exercise, and, if necessary, implement relevant contingency plans to prepare for potential security incidents.
- Insurance Notification: Contact the vessel’s P&I Club and/or war insurer well in advance of any voyage in the affected area.
Furthermore, vessels operating in the region are advised to report to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), specifically through their Voluntary Reporting Scheme for the Indian Ocean (covering the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea), and to register with the Maritime Security Centre for the Indian Ocean (MSCIO), adhering to industry Best Management Practices (BMP).
Liberia Maritime Authority Advisory
The Liberia Maritime Authority has issued a Marine Security Advisory, informing Owners, Operators, Company Security Officers, and Masters that recent military strikes against Iran are likely to lead to a resurgence of hostile actions against commercial shipping. Of particular concern are vessels with ties to the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel, which are perceived to be at a greater risk of being targeted.
Consequently, Liberian-flagged vessels transiting the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman are mandated to operate at security level 3 and implement all protective measures outlined in their Ship Security Plan. This elevated security level reflects the heightened threat perception in these critical waterways.
Vessels navigating the highly volatile sea areas, including the Levantine Sea, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and the Strait of Hormuz, are facing significant security challenges, including interference with LRIT (Long-Range Identification and Tracking) and AIS (Automatic Identification System) systems due to GPS jamming. This has prompted various maritime authorities to issue critical advisories.
AIS Operation and Risks
According to IMO Resolution A.1106(29) paragraph 22, if a master believes that the continuous operation of AIS might compromise the safety and security of their ship, or if security incidents are imminent, the AIS may be switched off.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the dual-edged nature of this decision:
- While switching off AIS can make it more difficult for hostile entities to track vessels, ships have been attacked regardless of whether their AIS was on or off.
- Crucially, disabling AIS also makes it significantly harder for the vessel to receive timely support if needed, from coalition forces or other assistance providers.
Reporting and Information Sharing
To mitigate risks, all vessels operating in these areas are strongly advised to adhere to industry Best Management Practices for Maritime Security (BMPMS). This includes:
- Reporting to UKMTO: Vessels should report to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which serves as the primary point of contact for merchant vessels and liaises with military forces in the region. Vessels are encouraged to register with UKMTO and submit their positions daily via email at 08:00 UTC while in the area.
- Registering with MSCIO: Vessels should also register with the Maritime Security Centre for the Indian Ocean (MSCIO). MSCIO is the planning and coordination center for the EU Naval Forces (EU NAVFOR) and encourages companies to register ship movements before entering the Voluntary Reporting Area (VRA).
- Reporting to IFCIOR: Vessels transiting the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman are also encouraged to report to the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFCIOR). This is a voluntary measure that promotes cooperation, stability, and communication with regional stakeholders and aligns with the latest BMPMS measures. BMPMS will continue to provide essential guidance for shipping, ensuring that comprehensive threat and risk assessments are developed for every voyage to mitigate the risks posed by ongoing security threats. The shipping industry is committed to continuously monitoring and advising on maritime security threats to facilitate the safe transit of vessels and seafarers.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Safety4sea
