Tensions rise as Malta blocks ship carrying arms to Israel

The Maltese government has refused permission for the vessel MV Kathrin, flying the Portuguese flag, to dock at local ports, reported the newspaper "Publico." The ship is carrying weapons and explosives for Israel.

The Maltese government did not explain why the ship was denied entry. "Publico" suggests it might be due to pressure from international organizations, including Amnesty International. "The ship contains explosives for arms companies in Israel, Poland, and Slovakia," reported "Publico." The transported materials are intended, among other things, for ammunition production.

"Publico" noted that the MV Kathrin is a German vessel, but its registration in Portuguese Madeira and the flag could negatively impact Lisbon's international image. The newspaper mentioned that the Portuguese government unsuccessfully persuaded the ship owner to change the flag. Portugal's opposition criticizes that the government of Luis Montenegro for showing ineffectiveness and passivity in this matter.

Malta is not the only country that has banned MV Kathrin from entering its ports. At the end of August, the authorities of Namibia also refused the ship's docking at the port of Walvis Bay, suspecting that it was transporting weapons and explosives to Israel.

At the same time, Angola also refused to accept the vessel sailing from Vietnam to Israel along the African coast to avoid the waters of the Red Sea, which are threatened by Yemeni rebel attacks.