Ashdod Port Officials: Houthi Attacks Have Not Affected Ashdod Port Operations

Following the attack by the Houthi group from Yemen on a Norwegian commercial tanker in the Israeli port of Ashdod, officials from that port stated that the Houthi attacks on commercial vessels pose a threat to global shipping routes and maritime traffic towards Israel. Nevertheless, they emphasized that these attacks have not had a direct impact on the operations of Ashdod Port. According to Reuters, the Houthis, who are supported by the Islamic Republic, announced on Tuesday, December 21, that in their latest action in protest against Israeli attacks on Gaza, they targeted a Norwegian commercial tanker in Ashdod. They had previously announced on Saturday, December 18, that they would target all vessels heading towards Israel, regardless of their nationality, and warned all international shipping companies against trading with Israel. Ashdod Port officials stated in a statement that they would take necessary measures to continue normal operations at the port and would keep Israel's gates open despite the challenges of war. The Norwegian company 'Mowinckel Chemical Tankers', owner of the Strinda tanker that was attacked by the Houthis, stated that the ownership or management of the ship has no connection to Israel and that the vessel was only 'tentatively' considered by charterers for cargo transport from Ashdod in January. The company added that 'the owners had the option to cancel the contract if the situation worsened' and noted that, upon the advice of their security consultants, it was decided not to disclose this information until the ship and its crew were in safe waters. According to Reuters, Ashdod Port officials refrained from commenting but stated in their announcement: 'We are prepared and are working to attract any necessary loading and unloading operations at this port.' Israel relies on maritime trade for imports and exports. Ashdod Port in the south and Haifa in the north are Israel's largest ports. Ashkelon, a smaller port closest to Gaza, has been closed in recent months due to the war. The attack on the Norwegian-flagged tanker near Yemen continues the expansion of Houthi attacks. Houthi threats supported by Iran: We will target all ships destined for Israel. Bloomberg: The United States is considering military options to counter the Houthis in Yemen. The U.S. is seeking to provide more support for commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The U.S. has sanctioned a financing network for the Houthis in Yemen.