DayofPal—Amnesty International has urged governments worldwide to prevent a German-owned cargo ship, the Holger G, from docking at their ports while carrying military components to Israel.
Amnesty warned that the shipment could contribute to genocide and other serious violations of international law.
The Portuguese-flagged vessel, which departed India on November 16, is reported to be transporting approximately 440 tons of mortar bomb parts, projectiles, military-grade steel, and metal alloys used in artillery shells.
The cargo is reportedly destined for major Israeli defense companies, including Elbit Systems and its subsidiary IMI Systems, which supply large quantities of weapons to the Israeli military.
Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s senior director for research, advocacy, policy, and campaigns, said: “The hundreds of tonnes of deadly cargo on board the Holger G must not reach Israel. There is a clear risk that this colossal shipment could contribute to the commission of genocide and other crimes under international law against Palestinians.”
She added that Israel continues to commit genocide in Gaza, maintain its unlawful occupation of Palestinian territories, and enforce a system of apartheid, while violating the rights of Palestinians under international law.
Amnesty also called on governments to impose a comprehensive arms embargo on Israel and refuse authorization for the transit of weapons.
The organization stressed that Portugal, as the flag state of the vessel and a signatory to the Arms Trade Treaty, has a responsibility to stop the shipment.
Amnesty further criticized the German shipping company Reederei Gerdes, urging it to ensure that its operations do not contribute to violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.
The organization warned that states facilitating arms transfers to Israel could be breaching the Geneva Conventions, the Arms Trade Treaty, and guidance issued by the International Court of Justice in July 2024.
Palestinians have accused Israel of repeatedly violating the ceasefire that ended a two-year war which killed nearly 70,700 people, mostly women and children, and injured over 170,000 others since October 2023.
According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, at least 395 Palestinians have been killed and more than 1,088 wounded in Israeli attacks since the ceasefire.
Amnesty’s appeal highlights ongoing international concern over arms shipments to Israel, emphasizing the legal and moral responsibilities of governments, shipping companies, and flag states in preventing potential crimes against humanity.
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