Spain Denies Ship Carrying Weapons To Israel To Dock At Spanish Ports

Spain has denied entry to a cargo ship carrying weapons to Israel, citing its decision to refuse port access to any vessel carrying weapons bound for the Middle Eastern country.

This move represents a huge step forward in Spain’s attempts to promote regional peace.

Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares acknowledged the step, saying it was the first time they had taken such a step because it was the first time they had located a ship carrying arms to Israel that wanted to call at a Spanish port.

Albares highlighted that such a strategy would be continuously implemented, demonstrating Spain’s commitment to promoting peace in the conflict-torn Middle East.

The Danish-flagged cargo ship, ‘Marianne Danica,’ was transporting heavy armaments, including 27 tons of explosives purchased from India’s Madras.

The ship requested permission to dock in the southeastern port of Cartagena on May 21.

This revelation comes amid an increasing political discussion in Spain over arms transfers, mainly because another vessel, the ‘Borkum,’ is under investigation for its cargo.

Pro-Palestinian groups had expressed concern over the ‘Borkum,’ alleging that it was transporting guns intended for Israel.

However, Transport Minister Óscar Puente stated that the ‘Borkum’ was on its way to the Czech Republic, not Israel, and so received permission to dock in Cartagena.

The decision by the Spanish government reaffirms its disapproval of Israel’s operations in the Gaza Strip.

Following the commencement of the Gaza war in October, Spain suspended arms supplies to Israel, joining other European countries disappointed with Israel’s military operations.

While Middle Eastern peace advocates have praised Spain’s move, it also highlights the difficulties of international relations and the region’s ongoing conflict dynamics.

As Spain continues to navigate its diplomatic route, its stand on armament exports to Israel sends a strong message of solidarity with those seeking a peaceful resolution to the long-running dispute.

Reference: Reuters

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Source: Maritime Shipping News