Turkey Demands Assurances for Cargo to Israel

Turkish port authorities have begun unofficially requesting assurances from shipping agents regarding cargo destined for Israel. According to shipping sources, the authorities are asking for letters stating that the ships are not connected to Israel and are not carrying military or dangerous cargo.

The sources said that the Coast Guard headquarters has verbally requested agents to provide written assurances, without an official circular being issued. The directive appears to be applied to all ports in Turkey.

The letter of guarantee should state that the ship's owners and managers have no connection with Israel and that certain types of cargo, such as explosives, radioactive materials, or military equipment, are not being transported to Israel.

The Ministry of Transport has not yet commented on the matter. It is recalled that last year Turkey suspended trade worth $7 billion annually with Israel due to the war in Gaza.

Source: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ-Reuters