Portugal faces pressure over explosives destined for Israel as a German-owned ship, MV Kathrin, seeks to cancel its registration in Madeira. The ship is set to transfer explosives to arms manufacturers in Montenegro and Slovenia for Israel. After requests from the government, the ship will no longer sail under the Portuguese flag. With Lisbon being critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza, the UN Special Rapporteur for Palestine has urged Portugal to take action in preserving its integrity.
Amnesty International has raised concerns about the possible use of the explosives in committing war crimes in Gaza and has called on Portugal, Slovenia, and Montenegro to halt the delivery. This comes after Namibia previously denied the ship entry in August. As the international community keeps a close eye on arms transfers to Israel, the pressure is on for countries to comply with international obligations and prevent the unlawful transfer of weapons.
Portugal is urged to continue its principled stance and uphold the Geneva Convention in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, while activists emphasize the need to prevent further casualties in the region.