Amnesty International is calling on all nations to block the Portuguese-flagged ship Holger G from using their ports, arguing its cargo of mortar components and military steel headed for Israel’s Elbit Systems risks fueling international law violations. The human rights group states that countries have a legal duty under the Geneva Conventions and the Arms Trade Treaty to stop arms transfers that could support severe crimes against Palestinians.
The organization specifically pressured Portugal, as the vessel's flag state and a treaty signatory, to intervene and halt the shipment. It also warned the German shipping company, Reederei Gerdes, that it risks complicity in alleged war crimes by facilitating the transport. The manufacturer, Elbit Systems, maintains that its sales to the Israeli government are lawful.
This appeal coincides with the International Criminal Court moving forward with an investigation into possible war crimes in Gaza. The vessel, carrying hundreds of tonnes of munition parts, is currently reported to be sailing toward Egypt after passing through the Strait of Gibraltar.
The organization specifically pressured Portugal, as the vessel's flag state and a treaty signatory, to intervene and halt the shipment. It also warned the German shipping company, Reederei Gerdes, that it risks complicity in alleged war crimes by facilitating the transport. The manufacturer, Elbit Systems, maintains that its sales to the Israeli government are lawful.
This appeal coincides with the International Criminal Court moving forward with an investigation into possible war crimes in Gaza. The vessel, carrying hundreds of tonnes of munition parts, is currently reported to be sailing toward Egypt after passing through the Strait of Gibraltar.
