Turkey has taken a significant step in its ongoing tensions with Israel by restricting access to its ports for vessels linked to the country, affecting docking, repairs, and refueling services. According Al-Monitor, under a memo issued by Turkish authorities, the new regulations target ships carrying explosives, radioactive materials, or military equipment bound for Israel.
Under the updated rules, shipping agents or operators must submit written declarations confirming that their vessels and crews have no ties to Israel. Ships providing false declarations face fines and expulsion from Turkish waters, with authorities monitoring compliance through digital tracking systems.
Reuters reports that Turkish port authorities have already begun informally requesting these letters, marking another escalation in Ankara’s measures against Israel. Last year, Turkey severed trade relations with Israel—worth approximately $7 billion annually—citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza involving Hamas.
In response to the new regulations, ZIM Integrated Shipping Services, Israel’s largest shipping company, has confirmed that it will reroute affected vessels (to Piraeus Greece), while maintaining service for Turkish customers. A company statement read:
“Following the latest decisions made by the authorities in Türkiye regarding Israeli-linked operated vessels, we would like to update you that ZIM will continue to offer all our high-quality services to Turkish customers while complying with the new guidelines. Our schedule will be updated accordingly soon.”
