Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, announced on Monday that the security level for Turkish-flagged vessels navigating in Lebanese waters has been raised to Level 3, the highest security alert under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

This decision follows heightened tensions in the region, particularly after Israel's ground operation into Lebanon earlier this week.

The move comes amid ongoing regional instability following Israel's assault on Gaza, which has left tens of thousands of Palestinians dead since October 7, 2023. With the situation rapidly escalating, Uraloğlu emphasized the need for Turkish vessels to be on high alert to mitigate potential security risks.

Uraloğlu detailed the protocols under the heightened security level, stating that all Turkish ships and their crews must strictly adhere to instructions from authorized authorities. “Security measures will be implemented at the highest level by the ship in cooperation with port facilities as part of the ship security plan,” he explained. The ISPS Code Security Level 3 is typically reserved for situations where there is an imminent threat to ship and port security.

Under this heightened alert, ship captains are authorized to increase security measures, including designating restricted areas onboard to prevent access during a security incident or presumed threat. "Additional restricted areas may be established, and searches of these areas will be conducted. Access to the entire ship could be temporarily restricted if necessary," Uraloğlu added.

The Minister warned that under Level 3, routine operations such as loading and unloading might be halted temporarily to ensure safety. “All materials, provisions, and supplies delivered to the ship will be thoroughly inspected, and their acceptance may be delayed or even refused if deemed necessary,” Uraloğlu stated. This could also include limiting access to the vessel through a single entry point, closely monitored by authorities.

In the event of an elevated security threat, the evacuation of crew, relocation of the ship to a safer location, and the preparation of specific areas onboard for inspection may also be required. “The procedures for abandoning the ship or moving it from a risky area will be implemented when necessary,” Uraloğlu concluded.

This decision underscores Türkiye's commitment to ensuring the safety of its maritime fleet amidst rising regional tensions and security threats. (ILKHA)