Türkiye has temporarily suspended maritime traffic in both directions through the Dardanelles Strait due to dense fog that significantly reduced visibility.

Maritime authorities announced early Saturday that the strait, a key international waterway connecting the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, was closed to all transit vessels starting from 08:00 local time. Ship captains and port officials were notified of the closure, citing safety concerns amid poor weather conditions.

Officials stated that shipping operations will remain suspended until visibility improves and it is deemed safe to resume passage through the strait.

The Dardanelles, also known as the Çanakkale Strait, is a critical route for global maritime traffic, including energy and cargo shipments. Temporary closures due to weather conditions are not uncommon, particularly during periods of heavy fog or storms.

Authorities assured that regular updates would be provided and that maritime traffic would resume as soon as the fog lifts and navigation conditions return to normal. (ILKHA)