US Investigates Spain's Reported Denial of Port Access to Arms Ships for Israel

The Federal Maritime Commission is examining claims that Spain blocked vessels carrying U.S. weapons, potentially violating international trade norms.

• The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has launched an investigation into Spain's reported refusal to allow three cargo ships carrying arms to Israel to dock at its ports.
• Two of the incidents under investigation occurred in November 2024, while the third involved a Danish-flagged ship denied entry in May 2024.
• Spanish Transport Minister Oscar Puente confirmed the May denial, stating the ship was carrying weapons to Israel and emphasizing Spain's stance against contributing to arms flows in the Middle East.
• If Spain is found to have violated trade regulations, it could face fines of up to $2.3 million per voyage and potential restrictions on Spanish ships entering U.S. ports.
• Spain's actions align with its broader policy shift, including freezing arms shipments to Israel and formally recognizing Palestinian statehood earlier this year.

4 Articles

Newsweek The Jerusalem Post Associated Press Associated Press