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Israel maintains seaports open for business in the midst of Lebanon conflict

Israeli authorities reported on Tuesday that Israel's Haifa ports were still operating at full capacity, despite the escalation of fighting between Hezbollah and its allies in Lebanon. The city was also being targeted by rockets.

Haifa, Israel's third-largest city, is the hub of much of Israel's maritime trade. After months of conflict in the border area, the first sirens were heard across the city on Monday. The military defence systems also fired interceptors to stop Hezbollah missiles over the Haifa Bay. There was no damage.

Tuesday in the city was calm, but tense.

The port authority of the government issued a statement to clarify that there had been no changes made to Israeli ports, from Eilat at the Red Sea to Ashdod and Haifa in the Mediterranean.

The statement added that the vessels entering Israel are covered by an insurance program backed by the state via a fund for property taxes.

The letter read: "Following the recent events, it is necessary for us to assure you that our ports are open and fully functional."

Iron Dome is one of the most effective anti-rocket systems on land and sea, and it's assigned to protect Israel's ports.

Israel's Transportation Ministry, which oversees administration of shipping, ports and other maritime activities, did not provide any additional details than what was stated in the letter. It only said that all activities are coordinated with the military home front command.

The port administration stated in its letter that "the security situation is constantly assessed; any changes will be immediately communicated." Mark Heinrich, Ari Rabinovitch and Ari Rabinovitch contributed to the report.

(source: Reuters)