Turkish port authorities have begun imposing new restrictions on vessels with links to Israel. Shipping agents are now being asked to provide written assurances confirming that ships have no connections to Israel and are not carrying any military or hazardous cargo destined for the country. These instructions, issued verbally by harbor masters, apply across multiple ports in Turkey, although no formal circular has yet been published, reports Reuters.
The letters of assurance must include declarations from vessel owners, managers, and operators stating that they are not connected to Israel in any way. They must also confirm that restricted cargo, such as explosives, radioactive substances, or military equipment, is not being transported to Israel.
As part of the new measures, ships arriving directly from Israeli ports or heading there will no longer be allowed to dock at Turkish facilities. Turkish-flagged vessels are also prohibited from making calls to Israeli ports. So far, officials have not released an official statement clarifying the scope or duration of these rules.
Context and Implications
The move comes against the backdrop of strained relations between Turkey and Israel. Last year, Ankara suspended billions of dollars in trade ties with Israel following the escalation of the Gaza conflict. The latest port restrictions represent a further tightening of Turkey’s stance, signaling that maritime traffic will now be drawn into the broader political dispute.
For the shipping industry, the measures introduce fresh complications in the Eastern Mediterranean, a region already facing disruptions due to security threats in the Red Sea. By raising barriers to Israel-linked cargo and vessels, Turkey’s decision adds another layer of uncertainty for regional trade flows.
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Source: Reuters
