Maltese refusal deepens ship’s diplomatic fallout

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

The Maltese government did not explain why the ship was denied entry. "Publico" suggests that international organisations, including Amnesty International, may have exerted pressure. "This ship carries explosives for arms companies in Israel, Poland, and Slovakia,” informed "Publico". The transported materials are intended for the production of ammunition, among other uses.

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

Malta is not the only country that has barred the MV Kathrin from its ports. At the end of August, Namibia also refused the ship entry at Walvis Bay, suspecting it was carrying weapons and explosives to Israel.

At the same time, Angola also denied entry to the vessel travelling from Vietnam to Israel along the African coast to avoid the Red Sea waters threatened by Yemeni rebel attacks.