Middle East Maritime Threat Escalates: Israeli and Lebanese Ports in the Crosshairs, Ambrey Warns

Maritime security firm Ambrey has raised the alarm over the increasing dangers faced by vessels operating in the Eastern Mediterranean, as tensions between Israel and Hezbollah continue to escalate.

The conflict, which intensified earlier this month with the detonation of thousands of beepers across Lebanon, has since evolved into a series of escalatory airstrikes between Hezbollah and Israel. This has led to a significant increase in maritime security risks, particularly for vessels calling at Israeli and Lebanese ports, according to Ambrey.

Ambrey’s analysis indicates that the port of Haifa is at “heightened risk” and could potentially become a direct target for Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Beirut and other Lebanese ports are assessed to be at “moderate risk,” with the possibility of a naval blockade looming.

The security firm warns that the ongoing Israeli bombing campaign is likely to continue, aiming to disrupt Hezbollah’s offensive and defensive capabilities. “Possible further escalatory Israeli airstrikes or an Israeli ground incursion would highly likely cause direct operations against Haifa port,” Ambrey stated.

Footage emerging online Friday showed a series of what is believed to be Israeli airstrikes against a Hezbollah command center in southern Beirut.

The situation is further complicated by the potential for simultaneous actions from other militant groups. Ambrey notes, “Simultaneous action by Hamas, Houthi, or Iraqi militants place Israel’s remaining ports (Ashdod, Ashkelon, Hadera, Eilat) at continuous risk of collateral damage in singular long-range targeting operations.”

In response to these heightened risks, Ambrey advises all vessels and their onshore personnel to prepare for potential security events by implementing pre-agreed mitigation measures. The firm emphasizes the importance of thorough risk assessments and crisis management preparations for companies operating in the region.