IMMARBE issued Warning on the Israel-Gaza Conflict

The International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize (IMMARBE) hereby advises all concerned parties of the war happening between Israel and Gaza. The Administration recommends that all ship owners bring awareness to vessels entering the Mediterranean Sea and for the crew onboard these vessels to exercise caution when traversing near Egypt, Suez, Israel, and Lebanon. The Administration strongly advises its vessels to keep a safe, clear distance and stay as far as practicable from the Gaza Strip and to be extremely vigilant when entering the Levantine Sea (the easternmost part of the Mediterranean Sea).

For the Belize flagged ships that are required to operate closer to the coast of the Gaza Strip, Cairo and that channel their way through the Suez Canal to the Red Sea, the Administration recommends the following information:

Stay in close contact with local port authorities and ship’s agent correspondents to obtain the most up-to-date and reliable information available at any given time.
To heighten the security level for Belize flagged ships in the Mediterranean Sea, meaning that ships must implement additional protective measures in accordance with the Ship Security Plan (SSP) if necessary, in this region, and maintain contact with Belize administration.
To report and record security incidents in the ship’s security logbook and ensure protective measures are incorporated into the ship security plans.
To use the Maritime Security Guidelines as a tool to educate ship's crew and protect the vessel against both internal and external threats that may occur in the area.
To inform Belize administration when near the Levantine Sea and having to transit the Suez Canal by means of email. Also, to notify Belize administration when the ship has left the conflict area
for Administration to be aware that the ship is clear of any risk.

For vessels previously trading in this region:

Note that the port of Ashdod, Israel is currently operating in “emergency mode” status.
The port of Ashkelon, Israel (used mostly by tankers) is not operating.
The Israeli Navy control all the sea traffic and conduct routine patrols; and have made it clear that they will prevent any vessels attempting to breach the restrictions in this area.
No Belize flagged vessel is allowed to call to any of the ports listed above until further notice.

For the safety of the vessel, ensure that the LRIT and AIS are always operational as per MMN-19-005r1. If there is any blockage in the region, a prompt notification shall be submitted for close monitoring of the safe passage of the ship.