Panama Maritime Authority: Avoid transiting in the Middle East between Israel, Lebanon and Iran

One year after the attacks, the security situation in Israel and surrounding areas remains violent and unstable, the Panama Maritime Authority highlights in a recent Marine Notice, urging vessels transiting in the above areas to keep the utmost vigilance and increase security conditions aboard.

During their stay in port, they must implement all security measures equivalent to Security Level III, as required in their Ship Security Plan in accordance with the ISPS Code.

The Panama Maritime Administration strongly recommends following the recommendations listed below and, in any document issue by the Israeli Authorities:

• Conduct a new ship- and voyage-specific threat risk assessment before entering any region where there has been an incident or the threat has changed.
• After the risk assessment, review the Vessel Protection Plan.
• Review section 2 of BMP5, which describes non-piracy threats and the Global Anti-Piracy Guide.
• Maintain a complete and vigilant watch on the bridge; Note: At night, small, slow vessels without a wake are difficult to detect on radar.
• Maintain strict surveillance of communications and establish communication with all approaching vessels. Do not allow small boats to approach or dock. Use a reflector to identify yourself at night.
• Guarantee strict boarding controls.
• Go down hallways or accommodation stairs only when necessary.
• Install exterior lights where possible, provided they do not interfere with maintaining a safe lookout, especially aft, and install/use searchlights if available
• Prior to commencing sailing, operators and managers should develop plans to respond to GPS disruptions affecting safe navigation, and ensure that seamen on vessels bound for Israel are aware of any imminent security threats in the region. Decisions on crew shore leave should always be made taking into account the prevailing local security situation.
• Conduct frequent checks with local information sources (ship agents, port authority websites) to obtain the most up-to-date and reliable safety information available at any time.
• Report any suspicious activity or objects immediately to both the port and UKMTO
• Monitor relevant VHF and other communication channels.
• Check all fire-fighting equipment available for immediate use. Make sure the emergency fire pump is available if any maintenance is being undertaken.
• Keep the Automatic Information System (AIS) on. There is no need to complete the field stating the last or next port of call.

We recommend that all vessels follow the instructions of the local authorities regarding the transit of the crew in port areas. Review your communication security plan on board, in case of an unforeseen incident.

In addition, the Panama Maritime Authority stresses that the automatic identification system (AIS) and the LRIT must be always turned on except in those cases where the captain considers that the security of the vessel could be compromised or when a security incident is imminent.

In accordance with the provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), in the same way, VHF Channel 16 must be monitored and communication must be maintained at all times with local authorities and with the Panama Maritime Administration.