The container liner company ZIM Integrated Shipping Services continues to operate and accept bookings to and from Israel, implementing new war risk premium charge, at cost, on relevant cargo.
Israeli shipping line ZIM also warns of potential service interruptions, as a result of safety guidelines dictated by the Israeli the authorities.
The company gave an updated-customer advisory regarding the war situation in Israel after Saturday’s attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas against Israel.
As from yesterday morning, in light of the war situation, insurers have imposed an additional insurance premium of war risk on all vessels calling Israeli ports, which we are now obligated to pay to maintain service to and from Israel.
The Israel-based shipping line, in the update, also reported that “as such, effective immediately, will charge the war risk premium, at cost, on relevant cargo.”
“First and foremost, our thoughts are with the victims of the horrific and tragic events taking place in Israel, and we stand in support of our employees, their families, and affected communities,” ZIM said in its customer advisory.
“Our top priority is supporting our employees and ensuring their safety and security, while maintaining an unwavering commitment to meet the needs of our customers with an unrelenting focus on strict operational standards.”
Harpaz P&I and M. Dizengoff P&I Representatives advise that the Port of Ashdod, which is located about 50 km from Gaza border, is subject to attack by missiles. The port is working in ‘emergency mode’ only, as NorthStandard, one of the largest P&I clubs in the International Group, reveals in its website.
The current restriction on vessel’s carrying Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) is still valid.
The Port of Haifa, which also includes the Haifa Bay port and Israel shipyard, remains operating as usual.
The Port of Ashkelon, which is located 15km from the Gaza border, is not operating normally and is subject to attack by missiles. Vessels can discharge cargo only whilst moored at sea buoys.
The Port of Hadera remains operating as usual, whilst the Port of Eilat remains operating as usual.
Meanwhile, the Panama Maritime Authority has issued a circular giving guidance to Panama-flagged vessels following the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The Panama Maritime Administration strongly recommends “all Panama flag vessels to take all security measures and avoid transiting through the Mediterranean area near the Gaza Strip.”
The circular informs that port operations in the ports of Israel are limited, for which the Panama registered vessels that are in these ports and their crews must remain in port until the Israeli authorities grant permission for departure or disembarkment.
