Amnesty International has called for Slovenia and Montenegro to halt the docking of the MV Kathrin, which is believed to be carrying explosives intended for Israel, as this could contribute to war crimes in Gaza. Nataša Posel from Amnesty International Slovenia emphasized the potential risks associated with the cargo. The ship has been denied entry by Namibia and other nations are urged to follow suit in compliance with international humanitarian obligations.
Amnesty International has urged Slovenia and Montenegro to prevent the MV Kathrin, a Portuguese-flagged vessel, from docking at their ports due to the cargo it is believed to be carrying—explosives destined for Israel. The organization raised concerns that such cargo could potentially contribute to war crimes in Gaza. The Namibian government recently denied the ship entry into its main harbor based on claims from the operator that the MV Kathrin is transporting eight containers of RDX Hexogen explosives. Despite this, reports indicate that the ship is en route to ports in Slovenia and Montenegro. Nataša Posel, the head of Amnesty International Slovenia, emphasized, “The deadly cargo believed to be on board the MV Kathrin must not reach Israel as there is a clear risk that such cargo would contribute to the commission of war crimes against Palestinian civilians.” Moreover, international humanitarian law forbids the transfer of arms when there is a known risk of such arms being used in war crimes. Amnesty International has documented various instances of war crimes committed against civilians during the recent conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, utilizing a variety of arms, including explosive munitions.
The MV Kathrin departed from Vietnam’s Hai Phong port on July 21, with significant cargo destined for Israel. On August 24, the Namibian authorities prohibited the vessel from entering their harbor, highlighting concerns that the delivery might breach international obligations by aiding violations of humanitarian law. Echoing these concerns, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Francesca Albanese, called on international authorities to prevent the MV Kathrin from docking, citing that the explosives are essential components for weaponry used against Palestinian civilians.
In summary, it is imperative for Slovenia and Montenegro to refrain from permitting the MV Kathrin to dock given the serious allegations regarding its cargo, which poses a substantial risk of contributing to war crimes. The international community, including all states involved, must adhere to their legal commitments under the Geneva Conventions to prevent arms transfers that may facilitate violations of human rights and humanitarian law. An arms embargo on the ongoing conflict parties is also being advocated urgently by Amnesty International to ensure accountability and uphold international norms.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
