In the wake of Gaza war fallout, Israeli Navy grapples with a series of mishaps, from sinking ships to trade disruptions
According to the Hebrew news outlet “Walla,” an Israeli warship sank off the Gaza Strip’s coast, marking another alarming event in a string of recent naval failures. While the loss of this frigate might seem isolated, it underscores a broader pattern of significant and widespread issues within the Israeli Navy.
Reportedly occurring last week, the incident unfolded as the Israeli Navy was preparing the frigate for military operations near the Gaza Strip shoreline. During an attempt to lift the frigate using cranes on the ship’s deck, one of the crane’s towing wires unexpectedly snapped, causing the vessel to plunge into the sea and ultimately sink.
A military insider within the Israeli Navy has affirmed the occurrence of this incident, stressing its significance in highlighting the Navy’s inadequacies in ship protection and maintenance. This revelation shows serious challenges within the Navy in these critical areas.
Moreover, the source emphasized the gravity of the situation, urging thorough investigation and action. They pointed out that the incident exposes significant discrepancies between the Israeli Navy’s practices and even the most fundamental international maritime standards.
Additionally, the “Walla” news website cited further commentary from military officials within the Israeli Navy. They noted that this incident joins a series of unusual and perplexing occurrences experienced by the Israeli military, particularly the Navy, since the commencement of the recent conflict with the Gaza Strip.
Prior to this incident, an Israeli vessel encountered a similar fate off the coast of Ashkelon. Not only did the ship sustain significant damage, but its personnel also suffered injuries.
Following the onset of “Operation Al-Aqsa Storm” on October 7 last year, carried out by Palestinian resistance forces including Hamas, the Israeli navy faced substantial losses not only in military operations but also in maritime trade.
The Israeli merchant navy suffered damage following an announcement by the Houthis. They declared that unless Israel ceased its aggression against Gaza and halted the oppression of Palestinians, Israeli or ships destined for Israel would be barred from passing through the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait and navigating the Red Sea.
Subsequently, the Houthis launched multiple attacks on Israeli, American, and British vessels heading towards Israeli ports, preventing their arrival. Additionally, the Houthis utilized drones to conduct operations within Israeli territory, including at the port of Eilat.
Of concern to the Israeli military is the possibility that these recent failures may be attributed to the influence of Palestinian resistance groups, particularly Hamas. They are apprehensive about the extent of this influence and whether it may extend to other Israeli naval fleets.