Jordan: Port workers in Aqaba likely to continue ongoing labor strike into at least early July

Event

Unionized workers affiliated with the Aqaba Company for Ports Operation and Management will likely continue to strike in Aqaba into at least early July. The group launched its current labor action June 28, one day after a winch dropped a storage tank filled with chlorine gas onto the deck of a ship at the Port of Aqaba, causing a gas leak that killed at least 13 people and injured more than 250 others. Strike participants are calling for improved safety standards and increased pay.

Disruptions to port operations are likely in Aqaba for the duration of the work stoppage. Strike-related protest activity is also likely; authorities will probably deploy security forces to monitor any demonstrations. Localized transport disruptions could occur in areas subject to protest activity and heightened security.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution; consider taking alternative routes to circumvent any strike-related protest activity. Plan accordingly for port operation disruptions. Consider alternate shipping arrangements for critical freights.