SOURCE: AFI
Spain has denied permission for a Danish-flagged merchant vessel carrying “27 tonnes of explosive material from India to Israel” to dock at a Spanish port, citing the need for peace in the Middle East.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares Bueno informed reporters in Brussels that this was the first time Spain had taken such a step. He emphasized Spain’s firm stance, stating, “the Middle East does not need more weapons, it needs more peace.”
The shipment originated in Chennai, India, and was destined for the Israeli port of Haifa, according to El Pais newspaper, as reported by The Guardian. The exact nature of the “explosive material” remains unclear.
This incident could potentially strain relations between Spain and Israel. Additionally, it raises questions about the future of such arms shipments and the potential for other countries to follow suit in prioritizing peace efforts.