FMC Investigates Spain’s Denial Of U.S. Ships Suspected Of Carrying Military Cargo For Israel

The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has started investigating Spain’s decision to deny access to U.S.-flagged ships suspected of carrying military cargo destined for Israel.

The investigation follows incidents in late October and early November when Spain refused to allow two U.S.-flagged vessels, the Maersk Denver and the Maersk Seletar, to dock at its ports.

The Spanish Foreign Ministry has said that these ships were denied entry under a policy introduced in May.

The policy states that ships suspected of carrying military supplies to Israel will not be allowed to dock in Spanish ports. As a result, both vessels were diverted to the Moroccan port of Tangier Med, where protests against the shipments reportedly took place.

The FMC is investigating whether Spain’s actions violated U.S. shipping laws. It is concerned that these actions could harm U.S. shipping interests and international trade.

If Spain is found to have broken any laws, it could face penalties, including fines or restrictions on its vessels entering U.S. ports.

The issues started when activists protesting the conflict in Gaza urged the Spanish government to block ships carrying military materials to Israel. Spanish authorities took action and blocked access to ships they believed were carrying military supplies.

The Maersk Denver and Maersk Seletar, are part of the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Maritime Security Program (MSP).

These ships were contracted by the U.S. government to transport military supplies, and Spain’s government suspected that they were carrying such cargo to Israel.

The vessels were diverted to Tangier Med, a port in Morocco. Spanish authorities have stood by their decision saying that they will continue to deny port access to ships involved in military activities related to the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Earlier this year, Spain also refused a Danish-flagged vessel, the Marianne Danica, on similar grounds, and has confirmed that no other vessels suspected of transporting military cargo for Israel will be allowed into Spanish ports.

The FMC has the authority to penalise Spain if its actions are found to be unlawful. These penalties could include hefty fines of up to $2.3 million per voyage, or Spain’s vessels being banned from docking in U.S. ports.

The Commission is also gathering public opinions on the issue. It has opened a 20-day period for industry members, including shipping companies, to share their opinions on the matter.

This input will help determine whether Spain’s policy harms U.S. shipping and whether any changes need to be made.

The investigation also raises concerns about the increasing influence of political issues on trade. If countries start blocking shipments based on political disagreements, it could lead to disruptions in the global flow of goods and services.

References: FreightWaves, SeatradeMaritime

Source: Maritime Shipping News