The British Vice Admiral Clive Johnstone warned that ISIS can be serious threat to the vessels sailing in the Mediterranean. The threat has increased even more with Isil’s seizure of the coastal city of Sirte in Lybia which is only 500 km from Malta. ISIS is spreading further and further to the Libyan coast and possess sophisticated weapons capable of targeting vessels. "We know that they have ambitions to set sail. We know that they would like a marine arm, just like Al Qaeda a marine arm had," said Johnstone. Using sophisticated weapon systems, a cruise ship, an oil platform or a container ship could be future terrorists target for ISIS. He did not believe in a long-planned attack, explained the Vice Admiral, it will be probably be a "random act of terrorism". But this would have "extraordinary impact on the western world". He added: ‘Nato mustn’t think the Mediterranean is just about immigration. It is the spread along the North African seaboard, it is the Daesh entry into Libya, it is the ISIS control of Sirte and other places, which has an uncomfortable shadow over maritime trade and maritime access.’ The international cruise association CLIA on Friday released statement saying “As always, cruise lines coordinate closely with national and international security and law enforcement authorities around the globe to help ensure passenger safety. "While we cannot disclose specifics of cruise ship security protocols, cruise lines take passenger safety very seriously. Security staff are well-trained and experienced; some are former law enforcement officers. Port and onshore facilities, infrastructure, and passenger security and services in destinations are strictly scrutinized. "In the event of any safety concerns, cruise ships have the flexibility to alter their itineraries as needed to avoid areas of higher risk. Our priority is to provide for the safety of passengers and crew at all times."