Australia Bans Cypriot Ship from Accessing Ports Due to Safety Concerns

Israeli ports are experiencing a growing backlog of ships as the country prepares for a ground assault in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. Despite the conflict, the ports continue to operate, albeit with increased waiting times due to security checks and labor shortages. Ashdod port, in particular, has reported longer waiting times. The government's efforts to privatize ports and open new ones to increase competition and efficiency could be affected by the ongoing conflict. The situation also raises concerns about the security of vital shipping chokepoints in the region, such as the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz. The Marshall Islands registry has raised the security level for Israel's ports and territorial waters to their highest. Additionally, Russia has called for a UN Security Council vote on a draft resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire and condemning violence against civilians and terrorism. [b3494eb0] [f9cafc2e].

The backlog of ships at Israeli ports is growing as the country steps up shipping supplies amid preparations for a ground assault in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. The smaller Ashkelon port has been closed due to heavy rocket barrages, while Ashdod port has imposed restrictions on the transport of hazardous materials, resulting in slower transits. Despite the backlog, the ports are working continuously to receive cargo of all types, including cargo diverted from Ashdod and unloaded at the Port of Haifa. Leading container shipping line MSC has reported increased waiting times at Ashdod due to security checks and labor shortages. Marine war insurance rates have surged since the attacks, and there are concerns about potential disruptions to vital shipping chokepoints in the region. The Marshall Islands registry has raised the security level for Israel's ports and territorial waters [07c9e45a].

Dr. Harel Menashri, a former member of Shin Bet, warns that China's extensive investments in strategic assets in Israel could pose a threat to Israel's cyber security. He specifically raises concerns about the management and operation of the Haifa Port, which is currently under the control of a Chinese company. Menashri emphasizes the need for Israel to mitigate risks and make well-considered decisions regarding its engagement with China. He also highlights China's growing pro-Palestinian stance and its tolerance of antisemitism on platforms like TikTok. China's primary concern lies in its influence within the UN and advancing its own economic interests. Israel should demand transparency in China's weapon sales to ensure they don't reach potential adversaries like Iran and Turkey. [dea601d8].

The future of the €1.2 billion investment in the port and marina of Larnaca is uncertain, with concerns about delays and lack of transparency. Larnaca stakeholders, including the mayor and the Larnaca Chamber of Commerce and Industry, are calling for transparency from both the government and Kition Ocean Holdings, the contractor behind the project. Building permits are expected to be issued in April, but stakeholders have not seen the agreements between the state and Kition Ocean Holdings. Larnaca's MPs are also expressing discontent and requesting updates from the Minister of Transport and the municipality. The lack of progress on the renovation of the historic pier is also a concern. The project's transparency and progress are seen as important due to the significant revenue generated by the port [98cca5ab].

Kition Ocean Holdings CEO Oliver Corlette blames the Government for the €1.2 billion Larnaca port and marina investment being at serious risk of failure. The company has invested over €30m in the project and is ready to commence construction. The current blockages to the progress of the project are the result of the Government's refusal to engage in discussions and resolve disputes. The company has asked the Courts to intervene to protect its position. The works for Phase A of the investment were scheduled to begin in June, but this depends on the progress of negotiations with the government. Kition is requesting changes to the project to adapt to the current market situation, but the Government has refused to engage in discussions. The company believes the Government's refusal to work with them may lead to the loss of one of Cyprus' largest investments. Kition is prepared to put the guarantee, but the Government refuses to meet and discuss the amount. If the disputes are not settled through dialogue, the matter will have to be decided by the Cyprus courts. Larnaca was not included in this year's maritime connection with Greece due to decreased demand. The crisis in the Middle East has negatively affected the reduction of planned cruises at the port [63f34b60].

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has imposed a three-month ban on the Cypriot-flagged bulk carrier Peace from accessing Australian ports due to serious safety concerns. The ban comes after a series of incidents involving Danaos Shipping, the vessel's operator, including the extended detention of another vessel, the Suez Canal, in January 2024. Greg Witherall, AMSA's Acting Executive Director of Operations, expressed deep concern about other ships operated by Danaos Shipping and announced an increase in inspection frequency. The ban was put in place following the Peace's detention in Newcastle due to failures in watertight and weathertight integrity. Witherall warned of potential further actions against Danaos Shipping if the company persists in operating unsafe ships. [34cc30de].

Activists are planning a peaceful demonstration outside the State of the Port Address during the 2023 Louisiana International Trade Summit to challenge trade ties with Israel. The event will focus on the future of Louisiana's port-based trade and its relationship with Israel. Earlier this year, representatives from the Port of Ashdod and leaders from five Greater New Orleans business organizations signed a letter of intent to create an 'innovation embassy' to promote Israeli innovation overseas. The activists are advocating for an end to all affiliations with industries that support the Israeli settlement and colonization of Palestine. [afce30cd]