MSCI Advisory 2021-003 - Southern Mediterranean Sea near coastal Libya - violence due to regional conflict

Description: This revised advisory cancels U.S. Maritime Advisory 2020-014

1. Issues: The ongoing conflict in Libya continues to pose a potential risk to U.S. flagged commercial vessels transiting near coastal Libya. Threats may come from a variety of different sources including, but not limited to: missiles, rockets, artillery, mines, small arms, aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles. These threats pose a direct risk to all commercial vessels operating in the area.
2. Guidance: Vessels operating in this area are advised to review security measures, ensure AIS is transmitting always (except when transmitting creates a threat to the safety or security of the ship or where a security incident is imminent, consistent with provisions of SOLAS and U.S. law), and monitor VHF Channel 16.

   a) Vessels at anchor, operating in restricted maneuvering environments, or proceeding at slow speeds should be especially vigilant. U.S. flagged commercial vessels transiting the conflict area should conduct a risk assessment and incorporate appropriate protective measures into their vessel security plans.

   b) To afford best protection in the region, U.S. flagged commercial vessels are encouraged to check in with the NATO Shipping Center upon entering the Mediterranean Sea. In the event of any incident or suspicious activity, call the NATO Shipping Center and activate the Ship Security Alert System immediately. Mariners are also encouraged to review the 'Central Mediterranean' section of the NATO Shipping Center website.

   c) Mariners operating near this area are also advised to consult Department of State Travel Advisories at: https://go.usa.gov/xUa5F. Transit by yachts and privately owned sailing vessels through the region is also extremely hazardous and may result in capture. The U.S. Government advises against all operation of yachts and pleasure craft in these areas. American citizens abroad should inform the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate of their plans to transit the area and/or update their information via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at: https://go.usa.gov/xEYEE.

3. Contact Information:

   a) NATO Shipping Center (NSC): or +44 (0) 1923-956574. NSC Advisories and warnings can be found at https://shipping.nato.int/nsc.

   b) U.S. Coast Guard: Per 33 CFR 101.305, suspicious activities that may result in a transportation security incident, breaches of security, and transportation security incident events must be reported to the U.S. Coast Guard National Response Center at +1-800-424-8802. Additional U.S. Coast Guard port specific requirements may be found in Port Security Advisory 1-20 at: https://go.usa.gov/xwmTy.

   c) For maritime industry questions about this advisory, contact . Supplemental information may also be found on the MARAD Office of Maritime Security website at: https://go.usa.gov/xUKsb.

4. Cancellation of Prior Advisories: This message cancels U.S. Maritime Advisory 2020-014 and this Advisory will automatically expire on August 9, 2021.

For more information about U.S. Maritime Alerts and Advisories, including subscription details, please visit https://go.usa.gov/xfdUX.

Status: Active