Turkey Imposes Shipping Restrictions Linked to Israel
Turkey has imposed restrictions preventing vessels linked to Israel from calling at its ports and is asking global shipping agents for written guarantees that their ships have no connections to Israel and are not carrying military or hazardous cargo, Middle East Eye reports.
Port Officials and Shipping Policies
Port officials across Turkey have reportedly been telling agents verbally to provide letters confirming that vessel owners and operators have no ties to Israel. The statements must also declare that the ship is not transporting explosives, radioactive materials, or military equipment destined for Israel. While no formal nationwide notice has been published, the practice appears active at several ports.
Specific Measures in Kocaeli
In Kocaeli province, the harbour master’s office has informed agents that vessels arriving from or bound for Israeli ports will be refused entry. Turkish-flagged ships have also been instructed not to visit Israeli harbours.
Official Statements and Trade Relations
A senior Turkish official said the measures were introduced in response to Israe...