Knesset panel flags national security fears over Zim’s sale to German shipping rival

NodeGuardian · 2026-02-23T12:30:50+00:00

A Knesset panel is concerned about the $4.2 billion sale of Zim Integrated Shipping Services to Hapag-Lloyd, citing national security issues and the potential impact on Israel's emergency logistics, particularly with foreign shareholders involved.

NodeGuardian

2026-02-23 12:30:50

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A Knesset panel has expressed national security concerns regarding the proposed $4.2 billion sale of Israeli shipping company Zim Integrated Shipping Services to German rival Hapag-Lloyd. Lawmakers and defense officials highlighted Zim’s critical role in Israel’s emergency logistics and security planning, particularly during wartime, and questioned whether a new, smaller Israeli entity formed from the deal would adequately safeguard these interests. Concerns were also raised about Hapag-Lloyd’s shareholders, which include Qatar’s and Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth funds, and the potential for foreign-owned shipping to compromise Israel’s independence during emergencies, especially given recent de facto arms embargoes.

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