Spain Denies Port Access to Danish Ship Carrying Explosives to Israel from India

Spain denied port access to a Danish ship carrying 27 tonnes of explosives from India to Israel, emphasizing its stance on promoting peace in the Middle East. The decision aligns with Spain's policy against facilitating arms shipments to Israel amidst ongoing regional conflicts.

Spain has denied a port call to a Danish-flagged merchant vessel, Marianne Danica, carrying 27 tonnes of explosive material from India to Israel. The ship had requested permission to dock at Cartagena on 21 May for replenishments during its long journey. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares Bueno announced the decision, emphasizing Spain's commitment to peace in the Middle East.

“This is the first time we have detected a ship carrying a shipment of arms to Israel that wants to call at a Spanish port,” Albares Bueno said. He added that Spain would adopt a consistent policy, denying docking permissions to any ships carrying arms to Israel.

The shipment, originating from Chennai, India, was bound for the port of Haifa in Israel. Chennai is a major port for India’s import and export of explosive materials. Spain has been vocal in its criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza and is advocating for other European countries to recognize a Palestinian state.

Spain halted arms sales to Israel following its military offensive against Hamas in Gaza. The Spanish foreign minister stressed the need for peace rather than more weapons in the Middle East.

India, known as Israel’s biggest defense buyer, supplies Israel with various military-related materials, including fuses, munitions, and drone components from both state-owned enterprises and private companies. Despite this, sources in India’s defense establishment maintain that their exports comply with international regulations governing the transfer of military goods.

In February, Reuters reported that Israel’s military operations have increased its demand for ammunition. India is enhancing its defense production capabilities and exploring various export opportunities to meet global demands.