File Photo: The German ship MV Kathrin.
“These false claims are an attempt by anti-Egyptian elements and propaganda outlets to tarnish Egypt's longstanding and historic role in supporting the Palestinian cause and people,” the source said, noting that those claims were groundless and were circulating in certain biased media outlets.
Several human rights groups and activists reported online that a German-flagged ship called “MV Kathrin” carrying explosive materials intended for Israeli largest military company “Elbit Systems” docked into Egypt’s Port of Alexandria this week after being rejected by several countries, including Malta.
On Wednesday, human rights lawyers filed a court appeal in Berlin to block the reportedly 150-metric-ton shipment of military-grade explosives aboard “MV Kathrin,” which they claim is destined for Israel's largest defence contractor, according to Reuters.
The European Legal Support Centre (ELSC) stated on Wednesday that the action was filed on behalf of three Palestinians from Gaza, arguing that the shipment of primarily RDX explosives could be used in munitions for Israel’s war in Gaza, potentially contributing to alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Germany-based Lubeca Marine, which owns the “MV Kathrin” said the ship "was never scheduled to make any port calls in Israel" and recently discharged its cargo, initially intended for Bar, Montenegro. However, the discharge location was not disclosed.
The company declined to provide the cargo details for contractual reasons. Still, it stated that it fully complies with all international and EU regulations, ensuring necessary permits are obtained before operations.
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