Concerns Over Coal Shipment from Colombia to Israel
An activist organization in Malta has voiced strong concerns over a bulk carrier transporting coal from Colombia to Israel, urging the Maltese government to intervene as the vessel's flag state. The ship, named Fortune and owned by Greek interests, departed from Puerto Drummond and is currently crossing the Atlantic, expected to reach Israeli ports within ten days.
Colombia's Response and Government Action
Colombia's government responded assertively, indicating plans to deploy naval forces to prevent future shipments of this kind. The controversy intensified after a complaint from Colombia’s Mining Union, which came amid President Gustavo Petro's 2024 ban on coal exports to Israel due to ongoing conflicts involving Gaza.
Official Statements and Policy Challenges
Colombia’s Minister of Labor, Antonio Sanguino, acknowledged the complaint and called for an investigation, highlighting the challenge this shipment poses to national policies. He also suggested that naval intervention might be considered against vessels heading to Israel.
Activism and Precedents in Malta
The Maltese act...