Arabian Gulf, Red Sea and Gulf of Aden
Norwegian Hull Club is closely monitoring the situation in the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea and Gulf of Aden following a US airstrike on an Iranian target in Baghdad earlier today (Friday, January 3).
We advise all seafarers in the area to exercise extreme caution.
At this moment, Norwegian Hull Club has not published detailed guidelines for the area but is continuing to gather information. We encourage seafarers to keep abreast of any pertinent advice circulated by their respective flag states and relevant maritime authorities.
Norwegian Hull Club notes that the Norwegian Maritime Authority has stated the following in a news posting on the organisation's website today: "We are keeping a close eye on the situation. Even though we have no intention to raise the security level, this may change rapidly. Any changes will be announced” - Alf Tore Sørheim, Head of Department of Operative Supervision.
Security levels
Details of the different security levels and the current status of these for Norwegian vessels are available on the Norwegian Maritime Authority's website here.
Norwegian Hull Club mobilised its contingency team this morning and is ready to assist its clients and members should any new situation arise. Salvors and other resources are also on alert and ready to act at short notice if required.
'Vigilant'
As the situation in the area could change without warning, Norwegian Hull Club urges owners and crews to remain vigilant and monitor all developments closely.