Hapag-Lloyd and FIMI are facing mounting opposition in Israel over their proposed US$4.2 billion acquisition of ZIM, as the buyers work on a revised proposal aimed at securing government approval. Hapag-Lloyd and FIMI to revise $4.2 billion ZIM acquisition bid According to Israeli business newspaper Calcalist, eight government bodies are expected to provide positions on the proposed transaction, with six having already indicated opposition. The National Security Council is currently the only body supporting approval, although its position reportedly includes reservations, while the Budget Division at the Ministry of Finance is still considering the transaction. The latest developments follow extensive discussions between representatives of Hapag-Lloyd and FIMI and senior Israeli officials over the conditions required for the transaction to move forward. Hapag-Lloyd and FIMI had requested a 45-day extension to address the concerns raised during those discussions, according to Calcalist. However, Israel’s Companies Authority extended the deadline only until 27 September. Israel seeks greater shipping access for ZIM Israel One of the main issues concerns the future shipping network available to ZIM Israel, which would operate separately under FIMI following completion of the transaction. Under the current arrangement, FIMI would receive 16 ZIM vessels and access to three shipping services, according to Calcalist. Two of those services connect with Greece, while one serves the United States. Israeli authorities reportedly want ZIM Israel to retain access to at least six services, potentially increasing that number to as many as 10. At least one connection with the Far East is considered essential, with authorities seeking to preserve Israel’s ability to maintain international maritime connections during periods of regional disruption. Hapag-Lloyd has confirmed that the revised proposal is intended to strengthen shipping connections between Israel and Asia, improving mar