Netanyahu Says Sale of Israeli Shipping Company Zim Is Not Under Consideration

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the sale of the maritime shipping company Zim to PAG-Lloyd and the FIMI fund is not currently under consideration. This response came during a government meeting after Deputy Minister Almog Cohen raised concerns about the sale, noting that some shareholders include Qatari and Saudi entities. Netanyahu emphasized, "This is not on the table at all."

Defense Minister Israel Katz supported Netanyahu's position, adding that the Defense Ministry opposes the deal and has not ruled out using the state's golden share to block the transaction. The sale, announced in February for $4.2 billion, was approved by a majority of Zim shareholders and is now awaiting regulatory approvals, including from the Israeli government. Last month, the Economy Ministry expressed opposition to the deal during a Knesset Finance Committee discussion, while the Finance and Defense Ministries had yet to decide.

Despite the prime minister and defense minister's remarks, the official stance has not been formally communicated to the buyers, who continue to submit required documentation as part of the regulatory process. Oren Caspi, chairman of Zim's workers' committee, praised the government's firm opposition, calling it a "moral and ethical decision" and a "critical security and strategic choice." He highlighted the importance of maintaining Israeli maritime sovereignty amid global supply chain threats, describing Zim as a vital lifeline for the Israeli economy and national security.

The ongoing debate reflects broader concerns about foreign ownership of strategic Israeli assets and the balance between economic interests and national security.