According to a notice published in the Federal Register on Thursday, the FMC raised concerns about potential disruptions to international shipping.
The commission warned that such actions could create unfavorable conditions for foreign trade. If Spain is found to have interfered with commerce, it may face fines of up to $2.3 million per voyage. Additionally, Spanish vessels could be barred from accessing U.S. ports as a retaliatory measure.
The FMC said it was notified on November 19 of the incidents, which included two ships enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Media reports identified the ships as Maersk Denver and Maersk Seletar. A Maersk spokesperson denied claims that these vessels were transporting arms to Israel, according to the Wall Street Journal.
The third ship was reportedly turned away in May, while the most recent rejections occurred in November. The incidents followed Spain’s formal recognition of Palestinian statehood and its decision to freeze arms shipments to and from Israel.
Spain’s government stated that the denials reflect its stance against contributing to further arms deliveries to the Middle East, emphasizing the need for peace in the region. A Spanish official reportedly said that the policy would apply to any ship carrying weapons to Israel.
The FMC’s investigation continues, with potential consequences for Spain’s maritime trade relations with the United States.
