Update: 16.10.2023

According to a Reuters report, Israeli ports are experiencing a backlog of vessels due to the armed conflict in the region that started earlier this month.

Although the ports remained operational, MarineTraffic data shows that around 13 ships, “comprising cargo, container and dry bulk vessels - were currently moored inside Ashdod port,” said Reuters.

Ashdod Port, the port closest to Gaza, has restricted the movement of ships carrying hazardous materials. Nevertheless, a statement by the port assured the public that it will continue to handle other types of cargo to avoid shortages of goods coming into Israel.

Container carrier MSC revealed last week that waiting times at Ashdod have increased due to security checks and labour shortages. In the meantime, Haifa Port continues work as usual, with reports of a few ships waiting to berth. However, similar to Ashdod, all dangerous goods bookings to, from and through Haifa have been stopped until further notice.

"The activity has been reinforced to the maximum possible, within the operational and manpower limitations, in order to receive cargo of all types, including cargo that was diverted from the direction of Ashdod and unloaded at the Port of Haifa,” the port said in a statement.

Industry experts fear that the situation in the region could lead to a backlog in the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz. Container xChange CEO Christian Roeloffs told Reuters that “the extent of these effects will largely depend on the conflict's expansion and duration." 

Original article: 09.10.2023

Armed conflict between Israel and Palestine broke out on Saturday, 7 October and continues into today.

The Israel Federation of International Freight Forwarders and Customs Agents (IFFCCA) have reported an impact on all areas of the supply chain in the country.

According to the Federation, Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) remained open today; however, several airlines have cancelled flights to and from the airport.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have closed main roads near the border with the Gaza Strip. Additionally, cargo operations at Allenby Bridge (King Hussein) crossing and Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein Border Crossing were closed today.

Nevertheless, the customs field offices and regulation authorities are open and are operating normally.

While attacks have also occurred at sea, the IFFCCA reports that ports operate normally.

In a separate advisory, Maersk confirmed normal operations at Haifa and Ashdod. The carrier expects to facilitate cargo already booked or on the water without issues and will continue to accept bookings for Israel.

While operations may continue at these ports as usual, Kuehne+Nagel expects their status may change at short notice, and carriers may opt to divert vessels.

With all major conflicts, there remains a high level of uncertainty about the impact on supply chain operations.

"Heightened security is likely at all Israeli ports of entry over the coming days, and the status of border crossings, airports, seaports, roads, and rail services may change on short notice in response to conflict developments," advises the IFFCCA.

"Precautionary measures, such as evacuations, are possible in areas impacted by armed conflict,"