HAIFA (Agencies): The Israeli government has quietly approved a major expansion of the Chinese-operated Haifa Bayport, located just 1.8 kilometers from Israel’s most sensitive naval base. The new regulations, signed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, grant Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) access to two additional cargo quays, significantly increasing China’s operational presence on Israel’s northern coast.
The Haifa Bayport, operated by SIPG, is a crucial infrastructure project aimed at modernizing Israel’s port facilities. Originally planned in 2009, construction began in 2015, and operations started in 2021 to accommodate large container ships that previously couldn’t dock in Israel.
However, security analysts have raised alarms over the port’s proximity to Israel’s submarine fleet and missile boat squadrons, warning of potential espionage risks due to Chinese-made cranes and embedded communication systems. Critics argue that Chinese involvement in Haifa could pose long-term security threats, particularly with China’s growing ties to Israel’s regional adversaries.
The Trump administration had publicly warned in 2019 that Chinese control of Haifa could compromise U.S. naval operations. Intelligence officials in both the U.S. and Israel cautioned that China could use its infrastructure presence for surveillance, impacting U.S. warships that regularly dock at Haifa.
Concerns over Chinese expansion in Haifa have intensified due to China’s deepening alliance with Iran and its indirect support for the Houthis. Intelligence reports have linked Chinese technology and weapon components to Houthi missile development. Additionally, COSCO, a Chinese state-owned shipping giant, severed ties with Israel during the Gaza war, a move widely interpreted as politically motivated.
The expansion also threatens to complicate U.S.-led efforts such as the India-Middle East Economic Corridor, where Haifa plays a key logistical role. Critics argue that by allowing China greater access, Israel risks alienating key allies, including the United States, which has pushed to limit Beijing’s influence in global trade routes.
The decision to expand China’s footprint at Haifa Bayport highlights the growing tension between economic cooperation and national security. As the expansion progresses, further scrutiny and international discussions are expected, with Israel balancing its strategic partnerships while managing potential security threats.