freighter cruise to japan

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How to Travel to Japan by Ship

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Afraid of flying—or unable to fly—but still want to visit Japan? No problem! While you won't find rail or road links to this island nation, there are a number of ferries, freighters and cruises that can get you to Japan—if you're willing to take the time! Your optimal route just depends on where you start!

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Shanghai, China — Osaka, Japan

http://www.shanghai-ferry.co.jp/english/shashin1.html

With a population of over 24 million, Shanghai is often considered the showpiece of China's economic explosion. Fittingly, there are two ferries operating between Shanghai and Osaka, Japan: the Su Zhou Hao and the Xin Jian Zhen . Whichever you choose, the journey takes roughly 45 to 46 hours, so it's no quick trip! The Xin Jian Zhen departs once weekly on Saturdays, docking in Osaka or neighboring Kobe on alternate trips (the travel time is about the same). The Su Zhou Hao departs Shanghai on Tuesdays and docks exclusively in Osaka. One-way costs for both ferries are the same, ranging from RMB 1,300 (¥20,000) for second class to RMB 1,600 (¥25,000) for first class—or RMB 6,500 (¥100,0000) for VIP. Also be aware that there's a fuel surcharge of RMB 150 (¥2,000). Round-trip fares are also available for all ferries listed here. Related Article All About Osaka

Vladivostok, Russia — Sakaiminato, Japan

http://en.go-to-japan.jp/daisenguide/dbscruiseferry/

Home to Russia's largest port on the Pacific, Vladivostok lies just east of Russia's border with China and North Korea. DBS Cruise Ferry operates a single ferry that departs every Wednesday for Sakaiminato in Tottori Prefecture, making a stop in Donghae, South Korea, on the way. It's 19 hours from Vladivostok to Donghae, then (after a 9-hour layover) a further 15 hours to Sakaiminato. One-way tickets range from US$240 (¥24,000) for economy class to US$545 (¥55,000) for a junior suite in first class. You can also embark starting at Donghae for KRW 115,000 (¥9,500) to KRW 320,000 (¥26,500). Be aware that Sakaiminato is pretty far removed from Japan's bullet train lines, and it's about 3.5 hours on local express trains to the nearest Shinkansen station in Okayama. However, if you're open to an unconventional starting point, Tottori is an oft-overlooked gem, known as home to some of Japan's earliest human settlements, with Matsue Castle and the ancient shrine of Izumo located just to the west. Note that there was also once a ferry between Sakhalin Island and Wakkanai in Hokkaido, but it was suspended in 2018 , and it's unclear whether it will resume.

Busan, South Korea — Japan (Various)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=297&v=YTKRBMoFEUs

While the Vladivostok ferry stops in Donghae further north, all other ferries connecting Japan to South Korea depart from Busan, the nation's second-largest city, located on the southeast coast. Busan presents the fastest possible ferry ride to Japan, and there are a number of destinations available. Busan — Fukuoka JR Kyushu Jet Ferry operates the Beetle , a jetfoil that travels between Busan and Fukuoka (or specifically, Hakata) two to three times a day, with the first departure from Busan at 8:30 a.m. and the last between 3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The trip takes about 3 hours and costs ¥14,000 one-way. Since Hakata is Kyushu's key hub for the Shinkansen (bullet train), for those arriving by ferry, it's an ideal starting point for exploring all of Japan. Another company, Korea Ferry Co., operates the Camellia Line between Busan and Hakata. A much slower ride, it departs Busan in the evening on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays and arrives in Hakata the next morning, taking about 14 hours in the summer and 15 hours in the winter (departure is earlier from November to February). The one-way cost ranges from KRW 30,000 (about ¥3,000) for a four-bed cabin to KRW 110,000 (¥11,000) for a royal suite. Busan — Tsushima Tsushima is a large, scenic island halfway between South Korea and Kyushu, administered as part of Nagasaki Prefecture. The Beetle jetfoil leaves Busan for Hitakatsu Port on the island's northern edge once or twice daily, with the most regular departure at about 12:15 p.m. It costs ¥8,000 and takes about 70 minutes. Korea-based Miraejet operates the hydrfoils Kobee and Nina, which leave Busan at 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m., respectively, taking about 70 minutes at a cost of ¥75,000 (¥7,500) to get to Hitakatsu. The website is Korean only, but the reservation widget is fairly straightforward. Just be aware that 편도 (top right) is "one way" and the first dropdown item at the bottom lists the number of adults. Note that Daea Express Shipping (also Korean only) officially offers a similar service on the Ocean Flower, including a route to Izuhara Port in the south of the island, but its reservation widget does not seem to deliver any results at the moment. Once you get to Tsushima, there are a number of ferry lines in addition to those listed above that can get you from the island and Kyushu proper. Busan — Shimonoseki Kampu Ferry operates the Hamayuu and the Seong Hee between Busan and Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture. The ferry leaves Busan at 9 p.m. and arrives the next morning at 7:45. Prices range from ¥9,000 to ¥28,000, with a port facility charge of KRW 4,300 (about ¥430) and a fuel surcharge of KRW 7,000 (¥700). Busan — Osaka PanStar Cruise operates a cruise line that leaves Busan at 3 p.m. every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, arriving in Osaka at 10 a.m. the next morning. Prices on the Korean side can be found here (Korean only), ranging from KRW 161,000 (¥16,100) to KRW 980,000 (¥98,000), plus a fuel charge of KRW 17,000 (¥1,700). Related Article The Perfect Weekend Tour of Fukuoka City

https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/find-a-cruise.html#%7B!tag=destinationTag%7DdestinationIds=O&%7B!tag=embarkTag%7DembarkPortCode=&%7B!tag=departTag%7DdepartDate=&%7B!tag=durationTag%7Dduration=&=&start=0&soldOut=false&sort=departDate%20asc,price_CAD_a

If you'd like to make the trip to Japan by boat from North America or from other ports in Asia, you might need to sign on for an ocean cruise. Some focus on Japan, others on Asia in general, and still others will take you all around the world! Holland America Line sails out of Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles, as well as Shanghai, Hong Kong and Singapore. All cruises take at least 10 days and start just south of US$1,000 including taxes, fees and port expenses—and rise quickly. Possible ports of call in Japan include Kushiro, Hakodate, Yokohama, Kobe, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Naha, Ishigaki Island and many more. Royal Caribbean International has cruises to Japan out of Hong Kong, Shanghai and the northern Chinese city of Tianjin, including four-night cruises from Shanghai to Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Kagoshima or Naha starting around US$630, and a seven-night cruise from Shanghai that stops in Osaka, Kobe and Yokohama for a little over US$1,000. Princess Cruises , on the other hand, offers a number of tours out of Taipei, including a three-day trip to Yokohama for a little over US$400. Other possible ports of call include Nagoya, Kobe and Naha. A convenient summary of cruises going to Japan can be found here .

Freighter Cruises

https://vimeo.com/185620936

Finally, you can take a freighter to Japan, or to a port that will allow you to connect to Japan—but expect an extremely slow ride. Maris USA offers a number of options on its Pacific and round-the-world routes, as you can book voyage segments for a daily rate of €130 to €150 (about ¥17,000 to ¥20,000) depending on the vessel and cabin style. For example, a 77-day tour out of Hong Kong stops in Shanghai and Busan within the first 10 days, but only hits Yokohama on day 70 on its way back from South America. However, you can board in Manzanillo, Mexico, and cross directly to Yokohama in a more reasonable 17 days. That said, if you do the math, that's actually more expensive and slower than the cheapest cruise ship out of Vancouver, but it does give you the option of staying in Japan as long as you like. Also note that the Mexico stop is the only direct shipping route between North America and Japan; all other options require a transfer to a ferry or cruise line at a port of call in Asia. Meanwhile, Freighter Expeditions offers cargo cruises from just about everywhere in the world, including Australia, Europe and Africa, but disembarkation is only possible at ports connecting to Japan—sadly, the only Freighter Expeditions tour stopping in Japan allows no embarkation or disembarkation in Japan itself. For a more general list of available freighter tours, you can check out the Slowtravel agency, which can hook you up with some of the aforementioned routes and more, including a freighter cruise through southeast Asia that incorporates the Busan-to-Hakata segment.

We hope this gives any aviophobes out there (or people who can't fly for other reasons) enough options to let you realize your dreams of coming to Japan! Bon voyage!

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Freighter Travel Gets You There Slowly but Surely

Take a leisurely cruise to China or Chile

Hans-Peter Merten / Photodisc / Getty Images

Boat travel is a charming alternative to long-haul flying, and far better for the environment, too. A little known and inexpensive boat option, freighter travel, is popular with student travelers and adventurers of all ilk, but figuring how to hop aboard a freighter isn't as simple as you may expect.

When it comes to budget travel, with Easy Cruise ships bobbing up in world ports, "regular" cruises are now navigating the cheap boat travel world. So what's up with freighter travel, cruises, and boat travel in general?

About Freighter Travel

Freighter travel is more expensive than flying (fares range from $65 -$130 per person per day, depending on the freighter company you travel with), but it's a life-changing experience. Freighter boats travel the same seas as do their luxurious sisters in cruise lines, like Cunard, but there the boat travel similarities only begin.

Because of the length of freighter boat trips ( Long Beach, California to Tokyo generally takes about 13 days), you'll have time to strike up friendships and possibly meet travelers returning home -- your destination area -- who can become contacts and give you valuable travel tips. Keep in mind that freighter travel is the opposite of glamorous, and you may find yourself without much to keep yourself amused. Keep yourself entertained with a well-stocked Kindle and a newfound appreciation of boredom. 

How It Works

Most freighter travel is set up in the form of a cruise that returns to a starting point, but almost all freighter companies offer one-way fares, which is the way to go. You can set up one-way trips, or "segments," as they're called in the freighter industry, and arrange for a segment to get there and a segment to get home.

Or you can choose to fly either way -- taking a boat to your destination can be a great segue from your busy life here to your busy life there, but you may want to fly back in the interest of time.

Cost and Reservations

Hopping a cargo boat without a reservation and with the intent of working off your passage is seldom feasible; most freighter company crews come from the Pacific and the Far East, and the captain is rarely looking for a temporary boy/girl. Go through Freighter Cruises -- a freighter boat travel agency (yes, there's such a thing).

About Cruise Ships

Freighter travel ( freighter cruises ) is the most economical way for student travelers to sail the high seas (though most definitely not the cheapest way to cross the oceans), but if you just won big bucks on a game show, you might consider a luxury ocean liner for the sheer comfort factor. Bear in mind that fellow cruise ship passengers are likely to be older and the cruise ship atmosphere far more formal and insulated than that of a freighter boat.

Short and Sweet (and Cheap) Cruises With Easy Cruise 

Meet Easy Cruise, a no-frills cruise line touring the Mediterranean Sea and the Caribbean islands (and one day, the world, evidently - expansion plans are underway). EasyCruise is meant for young people* on a budget - if you fit that bill, you probably wouldn't fit in with passengers on an expensive cruise line hunting down seafood buffets and the shuffleboard court anyway.

*Easy Cruise defines "young people" like this: minimum passenger age is 18; Easy Cruise says, "We have not, however, set a maximum age restriction, as people older than our target range (20-40 years old) might be young at heart!"

Whether traveling by spendy cruise ship or freighter boat, boat travel is boat travel. It's vital to pack sparingly, avoid motion sickness, and spend onboard pennies sparingly to enjoy your high seas adventure.

Packing for travel on a boat , whether a cruise ship or a freighter boat, is no different than packing for any student travel. Spare the stuff , and spoil your back.

You're probably traveling with a backpack anyway. Backpack packing is smart for boat travel because it can be hard to get at your stuff in a "cozy" boat berth (bedroom or cabin), just like accessing your things in a  hostel  can be problematic. Traveling with a daypack is smart; you'll want to take it with you onshore explorations.

Motion Sickness Prevention and Remedies

The bigger the boat, the less likely you are to experience motion sickness . Be prepared for this potential pest, though; spending a boat trip tossing expensive onboard cookies overboard is no fun.

Onboard Food and Drink

Food and drink on a freighter is almost always included in your freighter passage cost - do not count on carrying any food with you as the ship may forbid it. Food and drink on a cruise ship is usually spendy, but eating is a primary onboard activity, and some cruise ships have truly terrific cuisine.

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A Freighter Cruise Experience

By Maggie Freleng

Are you a person who has anywhere from 15 to 120 days to spend on the most exhilarating, unique, and nonstop adventurous time of your life? If so, then freighter traveling might be perfect for you!

What Is Freighter Travel?

A freighter is probably exactly what you think it is: a cargo ship that travels the world delivering goods and products. Most of the major global freighter lines, CMA-CGM, Canada Maritime, and Freighter World Cruise offer any person seeking adventure the chance to come aboard for a fare.

As a paying passenger, you are accommodated in guest cabins and have access to most areas of the ship. While freighter travel is not as unaccommodating as one may think, it is generally for people who would prefer a laid-back setting, with a more rugged edge to it than your standard Carnival cruise.

Some amenities you’ll see on a large cruise ship won’t be available on a smaller freighter ship.

FIND A FREIGHTER CRUISE HERE

Think it’s strange to be aboard a freighter? Well, think again! Captains and crew spend a lot of time on the water and are generally happy to have fresh and enthusiastic faces onboard. Many people who have traveled by freighter reported very friendly and accommodating crew.

Andrew Horsman traveled from Singapore to Brisbane, Australia on an awesome nine-day journey in 2006 to fulfill a dream of traveling from England to Australia without flying. He and his girlfriend Danielle were the only passengers among 22 crew and officers. GoNOMAD interviewed him about a trip he recounted in his freighter travel blog.

Andrew said, “Every one of them wanted to chat with us and hear about our lives, as much as we wanted to hear about theirs. In the evenings we would play board games with them, or challenge them to darts (which they usually won!).

“The Filipinos love karaoke so they managed to fit in a great night of barbecue followed by a singing session as we neared Brisbane.”

Many other people describe crewmembers as excited to give tours of the ship and often invite passengers to join them for get-to-know each other happy hours during the long hauls at sea.

On Andrew’s blog, he describes his freighter experience as “an amazing world.”

“I met some fantastic people, some of whom I know I’ll keep in touch with for a very long time to come. It’s also allowed me to see people who lead completely different lives to me, people who have comparatively very few material goods but who seem happier than many people who have more.”

Getting Around

Where can you go? Anywhere goods are delivered! The global shipping industry is huge; think of how many ports welcome cargo ships every day. For example, Freighter World Travel offers a 55-day trip from Long Beach, California via two ports in New Zealand, three ports in Australia and other stops in Tahiti , Mexico, Washington, and British Columbia.

This, however, is just one of Freighter World Travel’s routes. All shipping companies have certain freighters covering routes specific to their company. So shop around for a freighter that goes to the right places for you.

Duration of the Voyage

The length of the trip will depend on you. Many tickets can be bought round trip or from your starting port to only one other port; it all depends on where you want to go, which is the beauty of freighter travel! Some trips can be as short as 15 days or as long as 120 days.

The shortest passages are transatlantic and these vary between 8 and 12 days each way, while a freighter voyage can make it around the world in between 80 and 120 days.

Many people do not like to go all the way around the world due to time and money. Segmented trips are possible with a stopover in port for as long as you want. You can resume your voyage or fly home by plane if you have had enough. Segmented trips are perfect for people who do not have a lot of time to spend.

Port Stopovers

Generally, freighter traveling is for people who enjoy being at sea, not necessarily sightseeing in port. Freighters do not stay in port very long, usually no more than one or two days.

However, it is possible, if you choose a freighter which returns to a particular port to have your own layover of a week or two and return to the same ship when it again stops in that port.

Many people would think that because freighter travel seems much less glamorous than a cruise ship that the cost will be less; however, this is not always the case. Because the voyages are usually longer and go to more destinations, the average cost per day is usually around $100. Costs usually run between $65-$125 per day for a single person traveling in a single cabin.

While freighter traveling may be a bit more costly than flying and sometimes even a cruise, consider that your ticket pays for your room, meals, numerous sights and ports, and a once-in-a-lifetime unique experience!

Food and Sleep

One may think that because they are on a working cargo ship that accommodations would not be that nice, but that is a misconception. Accommodations on freighters are rather nice. Rooms usually have two bunks, a desk, a sofa, and a bathroom with a shower.

Sometimes rooms have a small refrigerator in each cabin, but not necessarily a TV or VCR, and instead of a workout room there are usually no elevators, so many stairs will give you your cardio for the day! Officers’ rooms are also offered but are larger and therefore cost more than standard crew rooms.

Meals on freighters are generally pretty good, and there is plenty of it. There is no choice of menu, except usually the crew will have different meals depending on their nationality, and then passengers are able to opt for whatever the crew is eating.

A stewardess serves meals in the mess hall or passengers have the option to eat with the crew in their mess but serve themselves. On Andrew’s trip, he ate with the officers in their mess hall. He said the food was usually a mixture of Filipino, Polish, and German.

What Is There To Do?

Passengers must keep in mind that they are aboard an active vessel. You will be surrounded by the everyday life of the vessel and crew. Schedules usually revolve around mealtimes, but besides that, the rest of the day is spent as you please.

The crew is usually very accommodating. Feel free to chat with the captain about sea navigation or schedule a tour with the head mechanic to see the underbelly of the vessel.

Plenty of Time to Read

Freighter travel may seem to have much less going on than a regular cruise ship because there are no planned activities, but there is plenty of time to read, get some sun, and take some time for yourself in the great outdoors! Some ships, like the one Andrew went on, have saunas, table tennis, and seawater pools, not too shabby!

Andrew spent every day standing outside on the bow watching dolphins and flying-fish race them through the waves. They passed the erupting Paulau Komba Volcano near Flores , saw sharks, sea snakes and turtles passing by.

You may think that just one week at sea may give you cabin fever, but for one who is looking to escape the daily grind of life in suburbia, a freighter may be the perfect place for you! And if it turns out you still have a few weeks left and you’re ready to call it quits, there is always an abundance of booze onboard to turn your frown upside down, and it’s all duty-free!

Packing for your Voyage

When packing, be sure to pack for the weather appropriately. You will be traveling to many different places, so take into consideration your many destinations. Also, pack with a worst-case scenario in mind; be sure all your luggage is manageable if you have to interrupt your trip somewhere and fly back.

Bring books (also guide books). Most of your time will be spent reading and writing. DVDs/VHS’s are also good, however, make sure your freighter has the appropriate equipment first (they usually do).

Laptops are a great tool while aboard ship. Sometimes ships do not have internet, but wireless access can usually be found at the port for quick online business.

A medical emergency kit is always good, although the ship will probably have one.

Bring valid prescriptions for any medications you are taking, and try to bring an extra pair of glasses, etc., that you may need in case you cannot replace them.

Universal adaptors are key to traveling outside your country. Bringing along a power strip means you only need one adapter and can use six plugs to recharge your devices.

Medical Issues

Freighters usually carry a maximum of 12 passengers. Ships carrying 12 or fewer passengers are not required to have a physician on board. This could be a downside to your travels, so make sure you do your research and do not have any serious medical conditions before you set sail.

One or more of the officers usually have some training in emergency medical treatment, but nothing major like surgery. Travelers over 65 are generally required to present a medical certificate.

Passengers below five and above 79 are usually not allowed on board as well as pregnant women. And because most ships are sailing under a foreign flag they are not subject to U.S laws requiring accommodation for disabled individuals. Most freighters do not have elevators, just many, many stairs.

Because of the limited number of people allowed on board, trips should be planned several months in advance. Some routes are very popular and will require even more time to book. Freighter traveling is much less informal than your standard cruise. While some freighters depart on the exact date and time, others have a window for departure so you must be flexible.

Most travel agents do not book freighter voyages, so you will have to book through an agent that specializes in freighter cruises or directly through the ship’s agent/manager. Not all agents book the same voyages, so shop around when booking and picking a freighter that is right for you.

Why Freighter Travel?

The pace is relaxed and the setting is informal. It is all about you, you, you, and time for you.

What’s even better is you are not surrounded by neurotic tourists. You are also meeting exciting and interesting people, many of whom are usually not of your native tongue, so you could possibly pick up a few new words in another language and break some cultural barriers.

Freighter voyages are not for the ordinary traveler; they are for people who want to escape from the norms of planned, routine travel, and step into the world of unpredictable adventure.

Flying is for people who would like to get somewhere quickly. Freighter travel is for people who would like to slow life down a few notches and enjoy the world around them.

In Andrew’s words: “By not flying we got to see a way of life that impacts our own lives so much – to hear about the people who transport all the white goods to our homes, the clothes we wear and the cars we drive, around the world.

It’s an incredibly nomadic existence and not one that we get to hear about very often, unless you put yourself in that position of sharing part of the journey with the crew.”

Find out more about Freighter Cruising

Freighter Travel book a trip

Freighter World (a website about freighter travel)

Frequently Asked Questions about Freighter Travel

Maggie Freleng is a former editorial assistant at GoNOMAD. She now works at WNYC as a radio producer.

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2 thoughts on “ A Freighter Cruise Experience ”

Several years ago I travelled on a freighter – 4 months around the world. Except for a few weeks towards the ende of the trip I (a 30 year old female) was the only passenger on board. It was the best time of my life, I absolutely loved it!

I’ve written a quite extensive travelogue about the experience which can be found here:

https://frachtschiffreisen-pfeiffer.de/wp-content/uploads/Reisebericht-Frau-S-Weltreise.pdf

or as a blog here:

https://dublinwhatsthecraic.wordpress.com/cargo-ship-adventure/

Maybe it is of interest to some of you! Mareike

It must be very interesting to travel on a freighter. I would like to be in a ship of King Ocean (www.kingocean.com), it would be an unforgettable moment of my life!

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Travelling on a cargo ship is a unique experience.  Whether you love the sea, are conscious of your carbon footprint, don't like flying or simply prefer to sail in a relaxed atmosphere , away from the crowds, then travelling by cargo ship is the right choice for you.

We've been doing this for over 30 years and are passionate about providing a personalised service tailored to your needs. Alas, carriage of passengers on cargo ships is discretionary and since the pandemic available vessels are in sharp decline; we cannot speculate which routes or owners might accept passengers in future.

A NUMBER OF CRUISE SHIP  'VOYAGE OPTIONS'  HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THE WEBSITE TO OFFER AN ALTERNATIVE TO FLYING AND IN THE ABSENCE OF CARGO SHIP OPTIONS. THERE ARE TRANSATLANTIC, SOUTH AMERICA, SOUTH AFRICA VOYAGES, MORE WILL BE ADDED IN THE COMING WEEKS - PLEASE ASK IF YOU HAVE A SPECIFIC CRUISE 'VOYAGE OPTION' YOU MIGHT LIKE TO FIND WE HAVE ACCESS TO MOST LINES.

WE ARE NOT OFFERING SHORT DURATION HOLIDAY CRUISES, ONLY POINT TO POINT LINE VOYAGES WITH A PURPOSE AND IN MOST CASES ONLY ABLE TO SELL TO UK RESIDENTS AT PRESENT OWING TO RESTRICTIVE CRUISE LINE PRICING PRACTICES.

www.voyageoptions.com  (under construction), Facebook.com/voyageoptions, Twitter @voyageoptions).

Do please take some time to check our website for available routes, also our ‘Ask the Captain’ section for frequently asked questions BEFORE contacting us!

+++ NEWS +++

LAST UPDATED April  2024  

WITH A FEW EXCEPTIONS, DEEP SEA INTERNATIONAL CARGO SHIP VOYAGES ARE NO LONGER POSSIBLE AS MAJOR SHIPOWNERS AND/OR THEIR CHARTERERS HAVE INDEFINITELY WITHDRAWN FROM THIS ACTIVITY.

- No transatlantic voyages

- No Australia/New Zealand/Europe voyages

- No Europe/South America voyages

- No transpacific voyages

- No round the world voyages

- No voyages in around Asia or Oceania

- No bookable availability Europe to/from South Africa until mid 2025 (waitlist/standby only 2024 @ 6 weeks notice) 

Some short haul European, Mediterranean, Baltic are bookable however 2024 availability is limited on some routes.

French Polynesia (mv Aranui V), mv Bella Desgagnes (St Lawrence River, Canada) are available & mv St Helena global voyages supporting the Extreme E organisation are likely to be available again in 2025.

Our website is updated regularly with bookable options; please do not contact us regarding cargo voyages that are not listed!

There may be cruise ship alternatives, please ask if you have a specific voyage in mind.

Try us and travel the world your way!

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Cargo ship cruise to every destination

Cargoholidays the best freight cruise arround.

Cargo ship cruise to every destination. A freighter is probably exactly what you think it is: a cargo ship that travels the world delivering goods and products. Most of the major global freighter lines, CMA-CGM, Canada Maritime on Cargo ship cruise, and Freighter World Cruise offer any person seeking adventure the chance to come aboard for a fare on Cargo ship. As a paying passenger, you are accommodated in guest cabins and have access to most areas of the ship. While freighter travel is not as unaccommodating as one may think, it is generally for people who would prefer a laid-back setting on ship cruise, with a more rugged edge to it than your standard Carnival cruise. Some amenities you’ll see on a large cruise ship won’t be available on a smaller freighter ship for Cargo ship cruise.

Where can you go? Anywhere goods are delivered! The global shipping industry is huge; think of how many ports welcome cargo ships every day. For example, Freighter World Travel offers a 55-day trip from Long Beach, California via two ports in New Zealand, three ports in Australia and other stops in Tahiti, Mexico, Washington, and British Columbia in cargo cruise to travel by Cargo ship cruise to every destination for Cargo ship cruise. This, however on Cargo ship, is just one of Freighter World Travel’s routes. All shipping companies have certain freighters covering routes specific to their company. So shop around for a freighter that goes to the right places for you. The length of the trip will depend on you. Many tickets can be bought round trip or from your starting port to only one other port; it all depends on where you want to go, which is the beauty of freighter travel! Some trips can be as short as 15 days or as long as 120 days for Cargo ship cruise. The shortest passages are transatlantic and these vary between 8 and 12 days each way, while a freighter voyage can make it around the world in between 80 and 120 days on ship cruise. Many people do not like to go all the way around the world due to time and money. Segmented trips are possible with a stopover in port for as long as you want. You can resume your voyage or fly home by plane if you have had enough. Segmented trips are perfect for people who do not have a lot of time to spend.

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Visit places you have only dreamed about, where traditional cruise ships may not call…

Make your journey your destination.

For most people who enjoy Freighter travelling, the time spent at sea is the reason that they sail   MORE…

Spend time on the bridge, on deck or in the engine room

For everybody, what they do at sea is a personal experience   MORE…

Travel green - travel with zero carbon footprint

Yes, it’s true, voyaging by Freighter is considered Carbon Neutral   MORE…

Can't fly or won't fly? Travel by cargo ship!

Freighter Travel an ideal choice. Its slow, and relaxing   MORE…

Example Voyages

We don’t offer package voyages – there are so many options available to you that we like to create a personalised itinerary to suit your needs..

For Example, here is a voyage that My wife and I really like – Duration – 27 days for € 2700.00

Sail from Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Singapore, Qingdao (China), Pusan (Korea) then back to China again – calling at Shanghai, Ningbo, Nansha, Yantian, Chiwan and then to Malaysian ports of Tanjung Pelepas or Kuala Lumpur – doesn’t it sound marvelous?

MORE…

Travel Options

One of the great advantages of traveling by cargo ship is the amazing flexibility available to you, the passenger..

We can arrange your connecting flights, rental car, accommodation and/or tours between cruises.

You can join the ship for as long as you wish. You may even choose to disembark from one ship, spend a week ashore at a place of your choice, and then join another ship for the rest of your voyage.

Imagine for a moment that you are on the deck of a ship, sipping a glass of wine. You turn your head towards the water just in time to spot a pod of dolphins swimming by or flying fish, providing company in the ocean. After lingering in the sunshine for a while, it's time to head inside for a 3-course evening meal and a splash in the pool before retiring to bed.

Now, what kind of vessel are you on?

No, you are not on a standard commercial cruise ship. You are not on a packed luxury liner hopping between Caribbean islands. You are aboard a modern freighter. Hundreds of cargo ships, carrying everything from fire engines to apples, are crossing the world's oceans, and many are happy to take you along for the ride. Adventurous travelers, including the Transitions Abroad family, have been doing so for years, as have many long before us.

What Does Travel on a Cargo Ship Feel Like?

A far more intimate and relaxed experience than you might imagine! The experience on board contrasts sharply with the rough and industrial outward appearance a container ship tends to project. You will be one of a handful of passengers among a crew likely to number up to a dozen or a few more. There will be no evening cabaret shows as on a standard cruise, though you may have access to TV, video, and board games in a common area on the ship where passengers may meet the crew. You may even play cards with the crew under the night skies. You might be invited to karaoke with the sailors, and you will almost always dine alongside the captain, who is far more likely to turn up in shorts and a t-shirt than in full uniform. Some cargo ships also offer equipped exercise rooms or pools.

Here was our first taste of the wonders of sea travel. Our introduction to freighter travel was a relatively short 5-day sailing between Australia and New Zealand. We joined the French ship CMA CGM Utrillo in the busy port of Melbourne, where our luggage — including two bicycles and bags — was quickly hauled on board and into a spacious cabin by a host of cheery Filipino deckhands.

What are the Costs of Cargo Ship Travel?

Depending upon your destination (Transatlantic, Transpacific, South Seas, Worldwide, and other special combinations), your daily freighter travel costs will be about $100-$130 per day per person per day with a luggage allowance of approximately 30kg-100kg (66-220lbs) depending on the line you are taking. Generally, US dollars are the primary currency used onboard to buy soft drinks, snacks, beer, and toiletries. You can then use your credit cards at each location you disembark.

What kind of Hospitality Can You Expect on Board?

Our next surprise was how quickly we felt part of the family. Just moments after arriving, our fellow passenger (a French woman "going around the world in 80 days”) hinted that the captain was sure to throw us a welcome barbecue. “He does that for every one new,” she said with a wink. Sure enough, the next evening was spent on the back deck of the ship, feasting on grilled fish and chatting with the seamen as the sun went down.

One of our concerns before sailing was that we'd find the days long. It was just the opposite. There were three square meals a day (hearty plates of meat and vegetables for workers) and our time between eating was filled with strolls around the deck and trips up to the bridge to check our position and ask questions.

Had there ever been stowaways? Yes, once a harmless passenger was allowed to board. What about pirates? Not here, but there were off the coast of Africa. And just how much fuel did a cargo ship need? In the current era of relatively low oil prices, $60,000 U.S. a day will generally cover the trip.

Why is it a Relaxing Way to Travel?

With our curiosity temporarily curbed, we would return to our cabin for reading our books or Kindle, journal writing, and a bit of table tennis if we felt especially energetic. Far away from the hustle and bustle of life on firm land, we were truly relaxed. The experience was in complete contrast to our usual hurried airplane trips.

For Hamish Jamieson, the owner of Freighter Travel NZ and one of only a handful of travel agents in the world licensed to book tickets on cargo ships, the simplicity of being at sea is the main attraction.

“When you're sitting up the front of the bow of the ship, on your own, and all you see is the sea going past and you hear the wind and waves, you're in heaven. For me, an afternoon...sitting right on the bow, watching the world go by with my binoculars, that's my heaven,” he said.

What Kind of Flexibility is Needed for Freighter Travel?

Of course, nothing in life is all smooth sailing. While we didn't encounter any problems during our trip, we did struggle with the uncertain nature of freighter travel before we boarded. Our initial departure date jumped forward first by three days and then seemed to bounce around by 12-24 hours every time we called to check the latest news. Ours was not an uncommon experience and you must prepare yourself for flexibility.

Even ports of call are not guaranteed because on a cargo ship, freight comes first, not the passengers. If the demand is not there for a certain stop, the ship will go where the business is.

“Our trip from the USA to Europe changed three times after initial booking,” said Rebecca Hogue and Scott Drennan, then on a journey around the world without using airplanes . Their initial trip from South Carolina to Belgium was from Florida to Italy. “Had we not been flexible with our departure times and locations, things would not have worked out.”

As Mr. Jamieson is fond of telling his passengers, when you go to sea, there are two things you must pack: a sense of humor and a sense of patience.

What are the Practical Issues?

Your trip may also involve some red tape, particularly concerning U.S. stops. American citizens are not permitted, for example, to travel within their country by cargo ship, although they can make international journeys. Meanwhile, travelers to the United States must have a visa, even if they would not need one to arrive by air. Only Canadians are exempt from this rule.

Be sure to budget time and money to get vaccinations like Yellow Fever if you are going through the Suez and Panama canals. A medical certificate declaring you in generally good health is another typical requirement.

Where in the World Do You Want to Go?

The hardest part of booking your cargo ship voyage is deciding where to go. Will it be to South America and around Cape Horn? How about a 55-day round trip from California to Australia and New Zealand via Tahiti and Mexico? Mr. Jamieson offers a few more ideas and favorite voyages based on years of experience.

“For me the ultimate voyage is from Auckland, in New Zealand, to Singapore. It takes 40-45 days to sail what you can fly in just under 12 hours but it visits nearly every island in the Pacific on the way and it stops for 2-3 days. The second choice for me would be from Singapore through to Houston in Texas. It goes up through Thailand, Vietnam, half a dozen ports in China, into Japan, then straight across the Pacific and through the Panama Canal.”

With enough time and money at your disposal--round-the-world trips can take 80 to 100 days or more--there are few places a cargo ship can't reach. Voyage destinations on cargo ships can change, so the many options available will often surprise you. You need to be adventurous enough to do your research, find a specialized cargo ship travel agent (see resources below), and then get on board.

The Golden Rules of Cargo Ship Travel

• Be prepared to make your own fun. There are seldom programmed activities aside from the odd safety drill.
• Go before you're too old. An upper age limit of 77-80 years is not uncommon, as no doctor on board and there are often plenty of stairs.
• Check that your travel insurance covers freighter travel.
• Be flexible. Schedules can and do change frequently. You may need 2-3 ships to reach your destination.
• Book in advance. Cabins are limited and the most popular routes can be sold out by ships months ahead.
• Forget about working in exchange for your passage. Current union rules mean this is no longer permitted.
• Take a good supply of seasickness pills. While not very common, rough weather can occur, sending tables, chairs, and your stomach flying across the room.
• Wifi and other modern electronics are now often available on cargo ships for travelers . If connectivity is important to you, ask whether those options are accessible and free in advance.

Friedel Rother gave up her job as a journalist for Reuters to ride a bicycle around the world with her husband. They have published two books in addition to cycling.

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Taking a Freighter Across the Pacific

• Posted on noflytri
• in Adventure , Travel tips
• on March 13, 2015
• 2 Comments.

So my plan has become to travel around the world without flying.  When I mention this to people one of the first questions I get is how will I get across the Oceans – and my answer has been to arrange passage on container ships to cross the worlds two greatest oceans.

The first of these leaves in a day or two’s time on Monday the 16th March, and should take me from Yokohama, just outside Tokyo, Japan to Manzanillo, Mexico’s biggest port, sitting on the West side of the country.

This is a big ship… (image from www.marinetraffic.com – you can track my progress through their site)

The process for arranging this has been surprisingly straight forward.  The immediate question I get when I tell people I am going to take a freighter is “how on earth do you organise that” and I am almost embarrassed that my answer is that I just Googled it.  Googling “ freighter cruises ” or “ freighter voyages ” will bring up a number of websites either explaining how it works or from travel agents themselves that will help arrange them for you.  There are multiple agencies offering this service, I ended up going with two German companies for my trips.  I do not yet have much to say about the second as my trip from the USA back to Belgium still seems far away, but the German Company, Slow Travel Experience , with whom I have arrange my trip from Japan to Mexico have been great to deal with.  It pays to shop around as different agents seem to have different contacts with different shipping firms, so routes offered are not always the same and prices can vary.

Once you find a route and travel agent you want to deal with you can expect a lot of paperwork.  For my trip I have had to sign several contracts, sign a liability waiver, provide proof of travel insurance, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination and get a medical certificate signed by a doctor less than 30 days before the start of the voyage, which ended up costing me quite a bit to get sorted in Korea.

The price of a cruise is something else I am often asked about.  It is not cheap. There are no longer enough jobs to go around qualified and experienced seamen so the chances of working your passage are gone.  However this drop in jobs means that ships no longer require as large a crew, which means that there are empty cabins on offer which are then offered for sale to passengers. So my trip to Mexico will hopefully involve me living in a relatively spacious double cabin with en suite and I think even a window view (of a container…)  The cost also covers all food.  So flying is cheaper than taking a boat, but if you compared flying plus two weeks worth of accommodation and food the price becomes much more competitive.

As for the voyage itself I obviously cannot comment. yet  But in terms of procedures before hand, I was contacted by the port agent in Japan just over a week before my planned departure date, in an email he confirmed the estimated departure date and told me that the immigration office would be closed at the weekend and as my ship was due to depart on the Sunday this would mean I would have to go through immigration procedures on the Friday.  So I have done so. Meeting the agent at his suggested train station I was taken by car to the immigration offices where after some discussion in Japanese my passport was stamped with an exit stamp from the future, saying I have left, or rather will leave, on the 16th March.  Which feels strange on the 13th March.  The agent also told me some fun facts about the ship, the CMA CGM Nabucco – the ship is crewed by a French/Romanian crew, and there are 34 crew members, whilst his female colleague told me I had a beautiful voice…

Its the future – I’ve tasted it…

On a freighter cruise the max number of passengers will be 8 as any more requires the presence of a trained doctor on board (hence the need for medical certificates).  This obviously means there isn’t a great deal of availability so you should try to book in advance.  That said some routes are more popular than others…for example Japan to Mexico it seems I will have as company a grand total of 0 fellow passengers.  Zero.  Zilch.  For 14 days.  I’m going to get bloody good at solitaire…

The other key thing to mention would be that the ship will have no wi-fi or phone coverage, so it will be pretty much radio silence from me until I land in Mexico, although I might try to schedule some posts on Japan and Korea to post whilst I am away. Of course once I arrive I will share my experiences of the trip. If you want to see where I have got to, you should be able to locate my ship by searching for the CMA Nabucco, on the Marine Traffic Website .

Hope to see you all on the other side….

If you enjoyed this article please consider sharing it!

2 Responsesso far.

Good luck Dan, you had better not rule out ‘working your passage’ quite yet! AJH

You really should look into becoming an environmentally friendly travel agent once youve finished your travels! Look forwards to your next update! 🙂

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How to Get to Japan without Flying

How to get to Japan without flying? This guide explains how you can cross the ocean to Japan without taking to the skies.

After China and Thailand, Japan is the third most visited country in Asia. It is possible to visit Japan without flying. However, reaching the island country in the northwest Pacific is part of the adventure.

This guide is divided into three sections. First, we’ll explore ways of traveling from Asia to Japan without flying. After that, we’ll investigate crossing the Pacific from America to Japan. And in the end, we’ll investigate departures from Europe and the rest of the world.

Avoiding flights has its challenges, and I know flying might seem like the easier option. If you opt to fly, please think about contributing 10 % of your ticket expense to a climate charity, particularly those endorsed by Giving Green . Carbon offsetting is rarely effective, so direct donations to effective charities can make a more significant difference.

How to Get from Asia to Japan without Flying

Traveling to Japan via South Korea

The most common way of reaching Japan without flying is by taking a ferry from South Korea. The shortest and most popular ferry route goes from Busan in South Korea to Fukuoka in Japan in three hours. In 2023, this ferry departs once per day. The 4corners7seas website lists all the ferries between South Korea and Japan .

In the past, it was also possible to take a ferry from Vladivostok in Russia to Sakaiminato in Japan via Korea, but this route is no longer active.

The best way to reach South Korea without flying is by taking a ferry from China. These ferries suspended operations during the COVID pandemic, but luckily there is some good news for flightless travelers. In August 2023, these ferries resumed passenger transport after a hiatus of over three years.

Traveling to Japan from the rest of Asia

If you wish to get to Japan without flying without passing through South Korea, you may want to consider freighter travel. Unlike cruises – that may produce more CO2 emissions than flights – freighter travel is considered nearly CO2 neutral .

You can book a freighter voyage easily with a specialized travel agency. I used Freighter Travel (NZ) on my 18-day transpacific journey from New Zealand to California , but other companies such as Cargo Ship Voyages , Maris Freighter Cruises , and Voyages en Cargo work just as well. On average, freighter travel costs $100-150 per day, including meals.

For example, Maris Freighter Cruises offers a freighter voyage from Shanghai to Tokyo in 5 days for roughly $650. If you embark in Asia, it is easier to find cargo ships that take you to South Korea instead of Japan.

How to Get to Japan without Flying from America

Can you sail from japan to america.

It is possible to sail from America to Japan. According to one guide , sailing from California, USA, to Japan takes around 30-60 days.

If you don’t own a sailboat, you can try to find a passage on websites such as FindaCrew.net and CrewSeekers.net . These services connect captains with crewmates willing to work for their passage. At the time of writing in late 2023, though, I couldn’t find any captains heading to Japan.

Reaching Japan on a Ship from America

The distance from the US West Coast to Japan is roughly 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers). Needless to say, there are no regular ferries across the Pacific. Some cruise ships may head towards Japan, but their large environmental impact makes them a conflicting choice for flightless travelers.

However, it is possible to travel on a cargo ship from America to Japan. As I wrote earlier in this guide, you can book a cargo ship voyage with the help of a freighter travel agency. The COVID pandemic has restricted the amount of freighter voyages available, but it is still possible to catch a ride across the Pacific.

At the time of writing, I was able to find one regular cargo ship route between Japan and America. The ACSA 1 route from freighter from shipping company CMA CGM connects Japan and Far East Asia with Mexico and South America. For example, you can take the freighter from Manzanillo in Mexico to Yokohama in Japan in 18 days for roughly $1900.

Flightless Routes from the Rest of the World

Finally, we’ll explore ways of reaching Japan from the other continents of the world: Africa, Australia, and Europe.

Heading from Africa to Asia without flying is not easy. There are not many cargo ship routes available for travelers departing Africa. Starting from Africa, I’d recommend heading to Europe first before continuing the journey through Asia. My guide “ How to Get to Europe without Flying ” can help you with this part.

When it comes to flightless routes to Japan, the Australians are slightly better off. The CMA CGF Georgia freighter travels from Australia to Japan every few weeks. For example, you can take the freighter from Brisbane to Yokohama in 12 days for around $1400.

If you start your journey from Europe, it might be best to head to America or Asia first. Fortunately, I have written guides for both of these journeys:

• How to Travel from Europe to America by Ship
• How to Take a Train from Europe to Asia (+ More Flightless Routes)

In this guide, we’ve explored various flightless routes from different corners of the world.

Starting in Asia, the ferry from South Korea to Japan, specifically from Busan to Fukuoka, remains a popular and efficient choice. However, the Russian route through Vladivostok is no longer available. For those seeking alternatives in Asia, freighter travel is an eco-friendly option.

Heading across the Pacific from America presents a challenge, but sailing from California to Japan is possible with patience and a connection via websites like FindaCrew.net and CrewSeekers.net . Cargo ships also offer a chance, with the ACSA 1 route from CMA CGM being one such option.

For travelers from Africa and Europe, the journey to Japan without flying can be more complex, often involving a detour through other continents. Australians have a more direct option via the CMA CGF Georgia freighter.

In your quest to explore the land of the rising sun without taking flight, remember that the journey itself is an integral part of the adventure. Bon voyage!

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11 April 2024

Japan coast guard adds three h225s.

Tokyo, 11 April 2024  – Japan Coast Guard (JCG) has placed an additional order for three H225 helicopters, taking its total H225 fleet up to 18. The largest Super Puma operator in Japan received three H225s in December 2023 and one in February 2024 for its growing fleet. The new helicopters will support territorial coastal activities, maritime law enforcement, as well as disaster relief missions in the country.

“The Japan Coast Guard has been an active operator of the Super Puma family helicopters for three decades. This follow-on order demonstrates the customer’s confidence in our products and the dedicated support to their fleet,” said Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan. “We believe the H225 is the perfect choice for JCG’s critical missions for law enforcement, as well as coastal and island protection, given its versatility in all weather conditions. We are committed to fully supporting its existing fleet, as well as its upcoming deliveries, ensuring high availability for its operations.”

JCG’s H225 fleet is covered by Airbus’ highly adaptive HCare Smart full-by-the-hour material support. This customised fleet availability programme allows the national coast guard agency to focus on its flight operations whilst Airbus manages its assets.

As the latest addition to the Super Puma family, the H225 is recognised for its high performance in challenging conditions as well as its outstanding range and payload capacity. The H225 has benefited from Airbus Helicopters’ continuous improvement policy. It is now equipped with new avionics including the largest screens available on the market and an innovative interface that, combined with its renowned autopilot, reduces pilot workload and enables them to focus on the mission at hand.  

Offering the industry’s best range, speed, payload and reliability in the 11-ton-category twin-engine rotorcraft, the H225 offers outstanding endurance and fast cruise speed, and can be fitted with various equipment to suit a variety of roles.

24 H225s are currently flown in Japan by Japan’s Ministry of Defence or parapublic operators for various search and rescue missions, VIP, fire-fighting, as well as passenger and goods transportation.

@AirbusHeli @JCG_koho #H225 

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Orbiting excellence: unveiling the winners of the Satellites for Biodiversity Award

EarthCARE satellite set to explore the Earth’s skies

Israel-Gaza live updates: Israeli war cabinet to reconvene Monday

I ran on Saturday night unleashed a retaliatory strike against Israel , sending a volley of more than 300 uncrewed drones and missiles toward targets throughout the country, Israeli military officials said. All but a few were intercepted by Israel and its allies, including the United States, officials said.

The attack on Israel came more than six months after Hamas terrorists invaded the country on Oct. 7, after which the Israeli military began its bombardment of the Gaza Strip.

Latest Developments

Israeli war cabinet to reconvene monday to consider response.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected on Monday to meet with his war cabinet to discuss potential responses to Iran’s attack.

The cabinet had convened on Sunday, but ended their meeting without making a final decision about a response to Iran’s attack, a person with knowledge of the meeting told ABC News.

The cabinet members include Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Benny Gantz, a former minister of defense.

-ABC News’ Joe Simonetti, Jordana Miller and Kevin Shalvey

Half of ballistic missiles launched at Israel failed: Officials

Two U.S. officials confirm to ABC News that at least half of the ballistic missiles launched by Iran at Israel either failed to launch, failed in flight, or crashed before reaching their targets in Israel.

A senior U.S. official previously told ABC News that among the more than 300 drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles, there were between 115 and 135 ballistic missiles that targeted Israel.

That would mean that only half of the ballistic missiles launched by Iran needed to be shot down by Israel and other countries.

The Wall Street Journal was first to report this info.

-ABC News' Luis Martinez

US forces destroy 80 drones, at least 6 ballistic missiles

U.S. military forces destroyed 80 drones and at least six ballistic missiles out of the more than 300 launched from Iran, according to CENTCOM Sunday.

The drone number is an update from Saturday evening, when the U.S. said it had intercepted 70 drones.

CENTCOM said the total included a ballistic missile that was on its launcher vehicle and seven drones before they left the ground.

-ABC News' Anne Flaherty

Israeli military submitted a 'spectrum of response options' to the government

Israeli military officials have submitted "a wide range of options" to respond to Iran’s missile strike Saturday, Israeli Defense Federation (IDF) spokesperson Peter Lerner told reporters early Monday morning in Tel Aviv.

The IDF’s response could be "strike or no strike," according to Lerner, who noted, there are "a lot of different scenarios in between those two."

The Israeli government will "decide on the steps forward" as early as Monday or within the coming days, Lerner said.

When asked about Iran’s "substantial" missile strike being intercepted with minimal damage, Lerner said, "Just because we were successful in intercepting, we shouldn't underestimate what Iran did."

"We can't take that lightly," Lerner said.

Israel reopens schools, relaxes restrictions on gatherings

The Israeli Defense Force (IDF) has eased homefront command guidelines after closing schools and limiting gatherings ahead of Iran’s missile strike Saturday.

"It was decided to restore educational activities across Israel," the IDF said in a statement early Monday, local time. The changes went into effect at midnight, according to Israel's Home Front Command.

Communities near the northern border and the Gaza Strip can also resume educational activities "in subject with restrictions."

-ABC News' William Gretzky

Congressional party leaders reach 'consensus' on aid to Israel and Ukraine, Schumer says

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said that during a Sunday call between President Joe Biden and congressional leaders there was "consensus" that Congress needs to act quickly to send aid to both Israel and Ukraine.

Schumer said at a news conference in New York that "hopefully" something can be accomplished this coming week to aid both countries.

Earlier Sunday, Biden spoke to Senate Majority Leader Schumer, House Speaker Mike Johnson, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

Schumer said the best way to send aid to Israel and Ukraine is for the House to take up and pass the Senate-approved national security supplemental that includes aid to both countries. The Senate passed the $95 billion package in February, but Johnson has not brought it to the floor for a vote.

"The best way to help Israel rebuild its anti-missile and anti-drone capacity is by passing that supplemental immediately. As I said, Israel expended about over a billion dollars in defending itself and the security supplemental would replenish the kind of anti-missile and anti-drone defenses that are in the Arrow, in the David's Sling, and in the Iron Dome," Schumer said.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said in a statement Saturday that the House would change its legislative schedule this week to "consider legislation that supports our ally Israel and holds Iran and its terrorist proxies accountable," but it's not yet clear what legislation that will be, or how drastically it might depart from the Senate-passed bill.

- ABC News' Allison Pecorin and Rachel Scott

Minor damage reported at 2 Israeli air bases

At least nine Iranian missiles that breached Israel's air defenses struck two of Israel's air bases, but no significant damage was reported, a senior U.S. official told ABC News.

Five ballistic missiles hit the Nevatim Air Base, damaging a C-130 transport aircraft, an unused runway and empty storage facilities, the official said. Four additional ballistic missiles hit the Negev Air Base, but there were no reports of significant damage, the official said.

A spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces said earlier Sunday that 99% of the 300 "threats of various types" Iran launched at Israel, including 120 ballistic missiles and more than 30 cruise missiles, were intercepted by Israel's air defense system and Israeli Air Force fighter jets, as well as "aerial defense systems and aircraft of our partners."

-ABC News' Martha Raddatz

US would not participate in Israeli response against Iran, defense and security officials say

While the Biden administration remains committed to defending Israel, top administration defense and security officials made it clear Sunday the U.S. would not be a part of any Israeli response.

"We believe Israel has freedom of action to defend itself, in Syria or elsewhere. That's a long-standing policy and that remains," a senior official said. "But no, we would not envision ourselves participating in such a thing."

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant Sunday afternoon, according to a U.S. official who described the exchange as “direct.” The official said Austin told Gallant that while the U.S. will continue to defend Israel, it does not envision being part of offensive operations against Iran.

A senior administration official also said President Joe Biden stressed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a call Saturday night that Israel had prevailed against Iran's strike against Israel.

Watch more:

Video: US will not participate in Israel retaliatory strike against Iran, Biden says

-ABC News' Mary K. Bruce

Biden speaks with Jordanian king as G7 leaders condemn Iranian attack

President Joe Biden and Jordanian King Abdullah II spoke on the phone Sunday about Iran's attack on Israel, according to the White House.

The two leaders discussed Iran's "unprecedented attack" on Israel, the White House said without elaborating.

Earlier Sunday, Biden met with G7 leaders, who jointly condemned Iran's attack on Israel.

"We, the Leaders of the G7, unequivocally condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s direct and unprecedented attack against Israel. Iran fired hundreds of drones and missiles towards Israel. Israel, with the help of its partners, defeated the attack," the G7 leaders said in a joint statement.

The statement added, "We express our full solidarity and support to Israel and its people and reaffirm our commitment towards its security."

The G7 leaders said the actions of Iran "further stepped toward the destabilization of the region and wrists provoking uncontrollable regional escalation."

"We demand that Iran and its proxies cease their attacks, and we stand ready to take further measures now and in response to further destabilizing initiatives," the statement said.

-ABC News' Michelle Stoddart

Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon reopen airspace after Iran attacks Israel

Jordan, Iraq and Lebanon have reopened their airspaces following Iran's attack on Israel, though some restrictions remain in the region.

“At 8:15 a.m., the Authority reopened the Kingdom’s airspace to air traffic after re-evaluating the risks according to national and international standards for the safety and security of civil aviation," the Jordan Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission said in an X post, formerly Twitter.

Lebanese state TV announced the Beirut Airport will resume operations.

The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority said the airspace had reopened after “overcoming all risks that affect the security and safety of civil aviation in Iraq.”

-ABC News' Ali Ayesha and Carla McMichael

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Iran seizes cargo ship in Strait of Hormuz, Iranian media says

Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, the Iranian state-run IRNA news agency reported, days after Tehran warned it could close the area to sea traffic.

Shipping security agencies had earlier reported a vessel being boarded and seized by "regional authorities" in the Strait of Hormuz between the United Arab Emirates and Iran.

The Aries is leased by international shipping line MSC from Gortal Shipping, an affiliate of Zodiac Maritime, Zodiac said in a statement, adding that MSC is responsible for all vessel activities. Zodiac is partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer.

The incident comes amid rising regional tensions since the start of Israel's campaign in Gaza in October, with Israel and its ally the United States clashing repeatedly with Iranian-aligned groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen.

Iran has threatened to retaliate for suspected Israeli airstrikes on its consulate in Syria's capital, Damascus, on April 1 that killed seven Revolutionary Guards officers including two senior commanders.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Friday he expected Iran to attack Israel "sooner, rather than later" and warned Tehran not to proceed.

Israel's military spokesperson, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said "Iran will bear consequences for choosing to escalate this situation any further," in response to reports of the seizure of MSC Aries.

On Tuesday the naval head of the Revolutionary Guards, Alireza Tangsiri, said it could close the Strait of Hormuz if deemed necessary.

He said Iran viewed as a threat Israel's presence in the UAE, with which Israel established diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the "Abraham Accords" mediated by the United States.

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group has disrupted global trade with attacks on shipping in the Red Sea for months, saying it is aiming at vessels linked to Israel in retaliation for Israel's campaign in Gaza.

The United States and Britain have carried out strikes against Houthi targets in response to the attacks on shipping.

The Joint Maritime Information Center, run by a Western-led naval coalition, said vessels intending to navigate the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy routes, should exercise caution and not loiter.

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.

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Israel says Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles, 99% of which were intercepted

Loud booms were heard in Jerusalem after Iran launched missiles and drones at Israel.

Sirens and explosions could be heard in Jerusalem on Sunday after Iran fired drones and missiles towards Israel.

The Israeli military said it would do everything to defend Israel, as Iran launched a first direct military attack against Israel on Saturday, sending drones and ballistic missiles toward Israel. Iran’s state-run media reported that dozens of drones had been fired.

Iran launched a first direct military attack against Israel on Saturday, sending drones and cruise and ballistic missiles toward Israel.

Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said that Iran has launched drones from its territory at Israel. Israel has been preparing for the possibility of a direct attack from Iran and is ready “for any scenario,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday.

A group of hardliners gathered outside the British embassy in Tehran early Sunday to celebrate missile and drone attacks on Israel. Protesters chanted “Death to Israel” and thanked the revolutionary guard for the attacks.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel’s defenses are ready after Iran launched dozens of drones and ballistic missiles toward Israel on Saturday

Iran’s state TV confirmed early on Sunday that the country’s powerful Revolutionary Guard had launched drones and missiles at Israel. Iran launched drones toward Israel late Saturday, the Israeli military also announced, and Iran’s state-run media reported that dozens had been fired.

Iranian missiles or drones were intercepted in the sky above the Jordanian capital, Amman, on Sunday.

Objects flying over the sky were seen from the West Bank, while booms and air raid sirens have sounded in Jerusalem after Iran launched dozens of drones and ballistic missiles toward Israel in an unprecedented revenge mission that pushes the Middle East closer to a regionwide war.

A group of hardline supporters of the Iranian government gathered overnight in central Tehran to celebrate the country’s missile and drone attacks against Israel.

Missiles could be seen in the night sky over the West Bank early on Sunday as Iran launched a first direct military attack against Israel, sending drones and cruise and ballistic missiles toward Israel.

Israeli Iron Dome air defense system launches to intercept missiles fired from Iran, in central Israel, Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel on Saturday. The Israeli military says Iran fired more than 100 bomb-carrying drones toward Israel. Hours later, Iran announced it had also launched much more destructive ballistic missiles. (AP Photo/Tomer Neuberg)

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Interceptors missiles are launched into the sky early Sunday, April 14, 2024, in Jerusalem. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick)

Iranian demonstrators chant slogans during an anti-Israeli gathering in front of the British Embassy in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel on Saturday. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

This is a locator map for Iran with its capital, Tehran. (AP Photo)

An Iranian cleric chants slogans while attending an anti-Israeli gathering at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel Saturday. The Israeli military says Iran fired more than 100 bomb-carrying drones toward Israel. Hours later, Iran announced it had also launched much more destructive ballistic missiles. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

Iranian demonstrators wave a Palestinian flag during their anti-Israeli gathering at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

An Iranian demonstrator chants slogans while attending an anti-Israeli gathering at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel Saturday. The Israeli military says Iran fired more than 100 bomb-carrying drones toward Israel. Hours later, Iran announced it had also launched much more destructive ballistic missiles. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

A demonstrator waves Iranian and Palestinian flags during an anti-Israeli gathering at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel Saturday. The Israeli military says Iran fired more than 100 bomb-carrying drones toward Israel. Hours later, Iran announced it had also launched much more destructive ballistic missiles. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

This image made from a video provided to The Associated Press by a Mideast defense official shows a helicopter raid targeting a vessel near the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, April 13, 2024. A video seen by The Associated Press shows commandos raiding a ship near the Strait of Hormuz by helicopter Saturday, an attack a Mideast defense official attributed to Iran amid wider tensions between Tehran and the West. The Mideast defense official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters. (AP Photo)

An Iranian demonstrator holds a poster of the late Revolutionary Guard Gen. Mohammad Hadi Haj Rahimi, who was killed in an airstrike widely attributed to Israel that destroyed Iran’s Consulate in Syria on April 1, during an anti-Israeli gathering at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel Saturday. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

Iranian demonstrators flash the victory sign as they hold an Iranian flag and a model of a bullet during an anti-Israeli gathering at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel on Saturday. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

An Iranian demonstrator flashes a victory sign as he holds a model of a bullet during an anti-Israeli gathering at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel on Saturday. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

An Iranian demonstrator ignites a flare as others carry a Palestinian flag during an anti-Israeli gathering at the Felestin (Palestine) Sq. in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel Saturday. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

In this image provided by the White House, President Joe Biden, along with members of his national security team, receive an update on an ongoing airborne attack on Israel from Iran, as they meet in the Situation Room of the White House in Washington, Saturday, April 13, 2024. From left to right, facing Biden are, Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns; Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence; Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. Some papers on the desk have been blurred by the source for national security reasons. (Adam Schultz/The White House via AP)

Iranian demonstrators chant slogans during their anti-Israeli gathering in front of the British Embassy in Tehran, Iran, early Sunday, April 14, 2024. Iran launched its first direct military attack against Israel on Saturday. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

Follow AP’s live updates on Iran’s attack against Israel .

JERUSALEM (AP) — Booms and air raid sirens sounded across Israel early Sunday after Iran launched hundreds of drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles in an unprecedented revenge mission that pushed the Middle East closer to a regionwide war. A military spokesman said the launches numbered more than 300 but 99% of them were intercepted.

Calling the outcome “a very significant strategic success,” Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Iran fired 170 drones, more than 30 cruise missiles and more than 120 ballistic missiles. Of those, several ballistic missiles reached Israeli territory, causing minor damage to an air base.

Rescuers said a 7-year-old girl in a Bedouin Arab town was seriously wounded in southern Israel, apparently in a missile strike, though they said police were still investigating the circumstances of her injuries.

In Washington, President Joe Biden said U.S. forces helped Israel down “nearly all” the drones and missiles and pledged to convene allies to develop a unified response.

The Iranian attack, less than two weeks after a suspected Israeli strike in Syria that killed two Iranian generals in an Iranian consular building, marked the first time Iran has launched a direct military assault on Israel, despite decades of enmity dating back to the country’s 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Condemnation from the United Nations chief and others was swift, with France saying Iran “is risking a potential military escalation,” Britain calling the attack “reckless” and Germany saying Iran and its proxies “must stop it immediately.”

Hagari said the vast majority of the intercepts came outside Israel’s borders, including 10 cruise missiles that were intercepted by warplanes.

Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system launches to intercept missiles fired from Iran, in central Israel, Sunday, April 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Tomer Neuberg)

“A wide-scale attack by Iran is a major escalation,” he said. Asked whether Israel would respond, Hagari said only that the army “does and will do whatever is required to protect the security of the state of Israel.” He said the incident was not over, and dozens of Israeli warplanes remained in the skies.

Israel’s military said its Arrow system, which shoots down ballistic missiles outside the atmosphere, handled most interceptions and noted that “strategic partners” were involved.

“At my direction, to support the defense of Israel, the U.S. military moved aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to the region over the course of the past week,” Biden said in a statement. “Thanks to these deployments and the extraordinary skill of our service members, we helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles.”

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a separate statement that U.S. forces “intercepted dozens of missiles and UAVs en route to Israel, launched from Iran, Iraq, Syria and Yemen.”

Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke early Sunday, Israeli time, their governments said. Biden said in his statement that he reaffirmed “America’s ironclad commitment” to Israel’s security — a departure from his growing criticism of Israel’s conduct in its war on Hamas in Gaza.

Iran had vowed revenge since the April 1 airstrike in Syria , which Tehran accused Israel of being responsible for. Israel hasn’t commented on it.

Israel and Iran have been on a collision course throughout Israel’s six-month war against Hamas militants in Gaza. The war erupted after Hamas and Islamic Jihad, two militant groups backed by Iran, carried out a devastating cross-border attack on Oct. 7 that killed 1,200 people in Israel and kidnapped 250 others. An Israeli offensive in Gaza has caused widespread devastation and killed over 33,000 people, according to local health officials.

Almost immediately after the war erupted, Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group in Lebanon, began attacking Israel’s northern border. The two sides have been involved in daily exchanges of fire, while Iranian-backed groups in Iraq, Syria and Yemen have launched rockets and missiles toward Israel.

In a statement carried late Saturday by Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency, the country’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard acknowledged launching “dozens of drones and missiles towards the occupied territories and positions of the Zionist regime.”

In a later statement, the Revolutionary Guard issued a direct warning to the U.S.: “The terrorist U.S. government is warned any support or participation in harming Iran’s interests will be followed by decisive and regretting response by Iran’s armed forces.”

IRNA also quoted an anonymous official saying ballistic missiles were part of the attack. A ballistic missile moves on an arch trajectory, heading up into space before gravity brings the weapon down at a speed several times faster than the speed of sound.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel’s defenses are ready after Iran launched dozens of drones and ballistic missiles on Saturday.

Israel has a multilayered air-defense network that includes systems capable of intercepting a variety of threats including long-range missiles, cruise missiles, drones and short-range rockets. However, in a massive attack involving multiple drones and missiles, the likelihood of a strike making it through is higher.

Iran has a vast arsenal of drones and missiles. Online videos shared by Iranian state television purported to show delta-wing-style drones resembling the Iranian Shahed-136s long used by Russia in its war on Ukraine. The slow-flying drones carry bombs. Ukraine has successfully used both surface-to-air missiles and ground fire to target them.

Some Israelis watched the interceptions light up the night sky.

Air raid sirens were reported in numerous places including northern Israel, southern Israel, the northern West Bank and the Dead Sea near the Jordanian border.

Israel’s army ordered residents in the Golan Heights — near the Syrian and Lebanese borders — as well as the southern towns of Nevatim and Dimona and the Red Sea resort of Eilat into protective spaces. Dimona is home to Israel’s main nuclear facility, and Nevatim has a major air base. Loud booms were heard in Jerusalem and northern and southern Israel.

The army’s Home Front Command canceled school Sunday and limited public gatherings to no more than 1,000 people. Israel and some other countries in the region closed their airspace.

Earlier, Netanyahu warned: “Whoever harms us, we will harm them.”

In Washington, Biden convened a principals meeting of the National Security Council to discuss the attack.

Gen. Erik Kurilla, the head of the U.S. military’s Central Command, was in Israel over the weekend consulting with Israeli defense officials. The Central Command oversees U.S. forces in the Middle East.

Iran’s mission to the United Nations issued a warning to both Israel and the U.S. “Should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran’s response will be considerably more severe,” it wrote online. “It is a conflict between Iran and the rogue Israeli regime, from which the U.S. MUST STAY AWAY!”

For days, Iranian officials including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had threatened to “slap” Israel for the Syria strike.

In Iran’s capital, Tehran, witnesses saw long lines at gas stations early Sunday as people appeared worried about what may come next. Dozens of hard-liners demonstrated in support of the attack at Palestine Square.

Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported heavy Israeli airstrikes and shelling on multiple locations in south Lebanon following Iran’s launch of drones. The Lebanese militant group Hezbollah said it launched “dozens” of Katyusha rockets at an Israeli military site in the Golan Heights early Sunday. It was not immediately clear if there was any damage.

Iranian missiles or drones were intercepted in the sky above the Jordanian capital, Amman. In Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, and elsewhere in the country, residents reported seeing missiles in the sky and hearing explosions, likely from interceptions. In Syria, explosions were heard in the capital, Damascus, and elsewhere. Britain-based war monitor the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Syrian air defenses tried to shoot down Israeli attempts to intercept Iranian missiles.

Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. AP correspondents Nasser Karimi in Tehran, Iran, Michael Balsamo in New York, Krutika Pathi in New Delhi, Stephen Graham in Berlin, Thomas Adamson in Paris, and Zeke Miller and Lolita C. Baldor in Washington contributed to this report.

Iran launches dozens of drones at Israel, one injured in attack: Recap

Editor's Note: This page is a summary of news on the Israel-Hamas war for Saturday, April 13. For the latest news on the conflict in the Middle East, view our story for Sunday, April 14 .

WASHINGTON — For the first time ever, Iran launched an attack Saturday against Israel directly from its territory.

Iran sent a wave of drones toward Israel, a U.S. official told USA TODAY Saturday, as the country ramped up preparations for an Iranian strike amid soaring Mideast tensions. The official was not authorized to speak publicly.

The Iranians had been observed preparing drones to attack Israel, according to a second U.S. official briefed on the intelligence but not authorized to speak publicly. 

The attacks were retaliation for a suspected Israeli airstrike on Iran’s embassy in Damascus, Syria last of Apr. 1. that killed seven Revolutionary Guards officers including two senior commanders. The move by Iran marks the most recent escalation in an inflamed Middle East that has been building for half a year − ever since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack in Israel detonated a retaliatory war against the militant group in the Gaza Strip.

"Our defensive systems are deployed; we are ready for any scenario, both defensively and offensively," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an address. "The State of Israel is strong."

Israel's military said fighter jets and navy vessels are "on a defense mission in Israeli airspace."

The attack is "likely to unfold over a number of hours," U.S. National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said. President Joe Biden is set to meet with his national security team at the White House on Saturday afternoon and is being updated on the situation, Watson said.

"President Biden has been clear: Our support for Israel’s security is ironclad. The United States will stand with the people of Israel and support their defense against these threats from Iran," Watson said in a statement.

After the founding of the state of Israel in 1948, the small Mideast country maintained relations with Iran − an outlier from other Muslim majority countries in the region. After Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, the two nations turned into fierce rivals.

Developments:

∎ Iran said it will not hesitate to take further "defensive measures" to protect its interests against any military aggression, the Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement Sunday.

∎ Israel's national emergency service reported a 10-year-old boy in the Arad region had been injured. No casualties have been reported as a result of the attack.

∎ Biden returned to the White House to meet with national security advisers about events in the Mideast on Saturday afternoon, cutting short a weekend trip to Delaware, the White House said in a statement.

∎ Iraq and Jordan temporarily closed their airspace as Iran launched drones toward Israel Saturday. Jordan has helped Israel respond to the attack by shooting down dozens of Iranian drones, Reuters reported.

Israeli Ambassador to U.N. calls for emergency meeting of Security Council

Israel’s top diplomat to the U.N. called for the Security Council to meet immediately to condemn Iran’s attacks and to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guards a terrorist organization.

In a letter released Saturday night , Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan wrote to U.N. Security Council President Vanessa Frazier said Iran’s drone and missile attacks at Israel was a “clear violation” of the U.N. Charter and international law, calling it a “severe and dangerous escalation.”

He pointed to Saturday’s attacks, as well as weapons transfers to Hamas, the Houthis and Hezbollah, among other Iranian-backed proxies, as evidence of violations that he said threaten international peace. He also cited Revolutionary Guards seizing a Portuguese civilian cargo ship earlier on Saturday.

“The time has come for the Security Council to take concrete action against the Iranian threat,” he said.

The 15-member Security Council includes the U.S. as a permanent member. Neither Israel nor Iran are current members.

IDF: Most Iranian missiles intercepted outside Israel’s borders, IDF base hit with ‘minor damage’

Israel said most missile launches from Iran were intercepted before crossing into Israel. On social media, Israel Defense Forces said its Aerial Defense Array and its “strategic allies” intercepted most launches before they hit Israeli territory. Still, IDF did identify “a small number of hits,” including at an IDF base in southern Israel. The base had minor damage to infrastructure, IDF said.

“Over the past few hours, many dozens of hostile aircraft, as well as dozens of cruise missiles, from Iran were identified approaching Israeli territory and intercepted,” IDF said. “Dozens of (Israeli Air Force) fighter jets are currently operating to intercept all aerial threats approaching Israeli territory.”

What is Israel’s Iron Dome?

The Iron Dome is Israel’s mobile missile defense system that is designed to find and shoot down short-range rockets fired at Israel. An all-weather system, the Iron Dome can also take down artillery and drones, and it can detect and engage rockets up to 40 miles away.

After becoming operational in 2011, it’s been upgraded over the years and has a high success rate. It’s part of Israel’s three-tiered air defense system that protects against short-range ballistic missiles, large-caliber rockets and cruise missiles, via David’s Sling, and also through Arrow-3, which provides defense against medium-range ballistic missiles.

Iran won’t hesitate to take more ‘defensive measures’ to protect ‘legitimate interests’

Iran’s foreign ministry said it would not hesitate to take further “defensive measures,” against any military aggression, Reuters reported.

“Iran, if necessary, will not hesitate to take further defensive measures to safeguard its legitimate interests against any military aggressions and unlawful use of force," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, according to state TV.

Iran would do so, the statement reportedly said, while reaffirming its commitment to the principles of the U.N. Charter and international law.

U.N. secretary-general ‘deeply alarmed’ by region-wide escalation

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he strongly condemned Iran’s “large-scale attack” on Israel. In a statement, he called for an immediate stop to the fighting.

“I am deeply alarmed about the very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation,” he said. “I urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid any action that could lead to major military confrontations on multiple fronts in the Middle East. I have repeatedly stressed that neither the region nor the world can afford another war.”

Trump praises Israel, attacks Biden's leadership during Pennsylvania rally

Former President Donald Trump paid tribute to Israel and blamed President Joe Biden for Iran's attack during a campaign rally Saturday night in Pennsylvania.

"God Bless the people of Israel," Trump said at the start of a rally at a fairground in Schnecksville ,  Pa., near Allentown. 

Trump, who attacked Biden in a series of Truth Social posts earlier in the day, did not cite the president by name when discussing Israel, but did blame what he called weak U.S. leadership for the attack by Iran.

Echoing a Truth Social post earlier in the day, Trump said the attack "would not have happened" if "we were in office."

− David Jackson

Biden says commitment to Israel’s security 'ironclad'

President Joe Biden said that he met with his national security team for an update on Iran’s attacks against Israel.

“Our commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad,” he said on  social media .

Sirens, booms across Israel as 10-year-old critically injured

Sirens sounded off across Israel amid Iranian drone attacks, according to Israel Defense Forces.

The IDF issued a flurry of alerts on Telegram for sirens sounding from southern Israel to northern Israel. This also included Jerusalem, the Negev and Dead Sea regions, among others.

Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency service, said there were no casualties reported, but a 10-year-old boy in the Bedouin area in the Arad region is in critical condition. On social media , MDA said first responders were treating the boy.

It was unclear whether he was injured by missile fragments or an interceptor, Times of Israel reported.

Earlier, MDA said sirens sounded across the country but there were no reports of casualties aside from calls of “stress symptoms” and people injured running for cover.

Trump attacks Biden over Iran attack; claims it wouldn't have happened under him

Former President Donald Trump reacted to the attack by referring to himself.

"ISRAEL IS UNDER ATTACK! This should never have been allowed to happen - This would NEVER have happened if I were President!" the presumptive Republican presidential candidate said in one of a string of Truth Social posts.

In other posts, Trump taunted Biden for not giving a live speech on the attack, and said the U.S. would always stand behind Israel.

Trump may address the situation during a campaign rally near Allentown, Pa.

Jordan shoots down dozens of Iranian drones to help Israel

Jordan shot down dozens of Iranian drones above northern and central Jordan en route to Israel, Reuters reported citing two security sources.

The news outlet reported Iran said it had been watching if Jordan made any moves seen as supporting Israel, warning that Jordan could be the next target, Reuters reported.

Iranian drone attack makes Israel attack on embassy ‘concluded,’ Iran U.N. mission says

Iran’s mission to the UN. said its drone attack against Israel marks the end of its response to Israel suspected bombing Iran's embassy in Syria in early April.

“The matter can be deemed concluded,” Iran’s mission said in a social media post Saturday evening. “However, should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran’s response will be considerably more severe. It is a conflict between Iran and the rogue Israeli regime, from which the U.S. MUST STAY AWAY!”

Lawmakers respond to Iran attack on Israel

Reactions from lawmakers were largely divided among partisan lines, with House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La, stating the "Biden Administration's undermining of Israel and appeasement of Iran have contributed to these terrible developments," and GOP Rep. Mike Crenshaw, R-Texas, arguing that "Biden signaled waning support for Israel. Now a potential war is erupting."

Other GOP lawmakers such as Sen. Roger Wicker, the top-ranking Republican on the Armed Services Committee, and Rep. Mike McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, called on the U.S. to stand with Israel.

“Our shared enemies, including Iran and their proxies, need to know our commitment is unwavering. We must join with Israel to ensure that Iran’s aggression is met with resolute action and resounding strength," Wicker, R-Miss., said.

Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada also said, "The United States stands firmly with Israel and its right to defend itself against attacks from Iran and its terrorist proxies." 

The senator said she would keep working to get legislation passed that provides additional military aid to Israel.

"What is happening now in the Middle East is why the house should have voted for the Senate passed security bill that supports Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan in their fight for sovereignty and democratic principles," Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., said in a X post, calling the U.S. the "backbone of the free world."

Drones key to Iran and its militias against U.S., Israel, researchers say

Drones have been key to Iran and militant groups it supports to attack U.S. forces and allies, according to the Iran Primer, a consortium of scholars who study the country.

Iran first developed rudimentary drones during its war with Iraq in the 1980s, Iran Primer's article said Friday. Today, Iranian drones are used for combat as suicide drones that explode on impact, or by traveling long distances to launch munitions at targets. They are also used for surveillance to identify targets using photo and video.

Iran began sending drones to Hezbollah, the militant group it backs in Lebanon, in the 2000s. In 2006, Hezbollah used drones against Israel in its 34-day war. They’ve reportedly since been used against ISIS militants, as well as in attacks in Saudi oilfields and in Iraq against U.S. military and diplomatic targets. Since 2022, Iran has supplied Russia with drones starting to use against civilian and military targets in Ukraine. Iran’s use of drones has increased in Syria, Iraq and Jordan after the war began between Hamas and Israel. In January, an Iranian-made drone killed three American soldiers in Jordan , while Houthi militants, backed by Iran, used Iranian-designed drones to attack ships in the Red Sea .

While some Iranian drones are small, carrying as little as 7 pounds of explosives, others can have payloads of up to 1,240 pounds. Many are modeled on captured American drones, Iran Primer said.

Plans in place ahead of drones, defense not ‘hermetic,’ IDF says

Israel plans to cut GPS services in certain areas as part of its plan to counter Iran launching drones at the country, Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Daniel Hagari said in a briefing Saturday evening.

“The IDF and the Israeli Air Force are implementing the plan we prepared in advance,” Hagari said in remarks. “As part of the preparations, GPS services will not be available in certain areas - the disruption is deliberate and according to plan. If we detect additional threats with a shorter arrival time, we will update you immediately.”

Hagari reminded Israelis of Home Front Command , which helps prepare civilians for conflicts or disasters. With sirens activated, IDF said people must enter shelters and remain there for no less than 10 minutes, though he said it could be longer. He encouraged Israelis to act responsibly and calmly. The IDF remains cooperating with the U.S. and partners in the region to counter launches and intercept them, he added. Protection includes the Israeli Air Force and Navy personnel, as well as the Aerial Defense Array, which includes the Iron Dome Aerial Defense System.

The defense is not “hermetic,” he said, adding it’s crucial to follow the country's Home Front Command.

U.S. promises to support Israel in face of Iran attack

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke Saturday with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and “made clear that Israel could count on full U.S. support to defend Israel against any attacks by Iran and its regional proxies,” according to a readout of their call provided by Pentagon press secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder. 

National security adviser Jake Sullivan also affirmed the U.S.' "ironclad commitment to the security of Israel" in a call with his counterpart in Israel, Tzachi Hanegbi, Sullivan said Saturday.

Netanyahu said in an address he appreciates the U.S. and other allies' support.

How long until the Iranian drones reach Israel?

The dozens of drones that were launched could take hours to arrive, according to Israel's top-rated Channel 12 TV news. Retired general Amos Yadlin told the channel the drones were equipped with 20 kg of explosives. Israel's military said sirens will sound in any threatened areas. Iran has threatened to retaliate for an April 1 attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus that killed seven of its military commanders. Iran blames Israel for the attack, but Israel has not confirmed or denied involvement.

Iran readies missiles for potential attack, US official says

Iran has been observed preparing cruise missiles for use in a potential attack on Israel, according to a U.S. official briefed on the matter.

Meanwhile, national security officials remained focused Saturday on Iran’s next steps, a second official said. Both officials were not authorized to speak publicly.

Biden confirmed Friday that U.S. intelligence showed that an Iranian attack on Israel could happen soon. Iran has vowed revenge for the April 1 airstrike. Iran blames Israel for the airstrike; Israel has not publicly acknowledged its role in the attack.

Iran’s anticipated retaliation comes as tensions have spiked in the Middle East as Israel’s war against Hamas continues. The Pentagon has bolstered defenses for the tens of thousands of U.S. troops in the region in advance of the prospect of an imminent attack on Israel and Western interests.

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Iranian forces seize ship with ties to Israel in Strait of Hormuz

Members of Iran's Revolutionary Guard seized an Israel-linked cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday.

Iranian state media reported that the MSC Aries ship, which carries a Portuguese flag, was taken into Iranian waters. The ship's operator, MSC, confirmed the seizure by Iran and said it was working with authorities to ensure its return and the safety of the crew.

The crew includes Indian, Filipino, Pakistani, Russian and Estonian, according to White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson. Watson said the seizing of a "civilian vessel without provocation is a blatant violation of international law" and an act of piracy.

"We strongly condemn the Iranian seizure of the Portuguese flagged, British-owned MSC AIRES in international waters," Watson said on X .

Ship incident comes amid Houthi attacks in Red Sea

The Iran-backed Houthi rebel group in Yemen has been attacking ships in the Red Sea for months, saying it aims for Israel-linked ships.

The ship seized on Saturday is owned by Gortal Shipping, an affiliate of Zodiac Maritime. Zodiac is partly owned by an Israeli businessman. Zodiac said in a statement that MSC leases the Aries and is responsible for its activities.

"Iran will bear consequences for choosing to escalate this situation any further," said Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a spokesperson for Israel's military.

Hasan Alhasan, an analyst with the International Institute for Strategic Studies, told Reuters that if the seizure of the ship is in retaliation for the April 1 attack, it may indicate Iran's desire to save face without causing a wider escalation of the regional conflict. "Iran may be trying to play on fears that it could obstruct shipping through the strait, a passageway of greater significance to global oil and gas supplies than the Red Sea," Alhasan said.

Body found of missing Israeli teen

Israeli officials said the body of a 14-year-old boy who went missing near the Malachei Shalom outpost on Friday morning was found Saturday in the West Bank.

Binyamin Achimair's death was a "terrorist attack," the Israeli military said, while Netanyahu vowed the perpetrators would be found.

Israeli forces were searching "from the air and on the ground" Friday, while groups of Israeli settlers stormed a nearby Palestinian village and set fire to houses and cars overnight. One person was killed and several injured in the conflict, Palestinian officials said.

Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law by most of the world, which Israel contests. The settlements house Israeli citizens in the occupied land.

Contributing: Reuters