LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta has offered to fund repairs for a Gaza-bound vessel currently stranded, but continues to refuse the ship entry into Maltese territorial waters and ports until certain conditions are met, including an inspection of the ship’s cargo.

Prime Minister Robert Abela confirmed Sunday that Malta would cover the cost of repairs, but only after verifying that the ship is indeed carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. “We are offering to pay for the repairs after we confirm the ship is, indeed, carrying humanitarian aid,” Abela told reporters.

However, the prime minister emphasized that the government requires the crew to provide a detailed list of the ship’s contents before making any further decisions.

Malta’s government is also demanding confirmation that the damage to the vessel aligns with the aftermath of an attack, as claimed by the ship’s crew. “The damage sustained by the ship must be compatible with the damage from an attack,” Abela explained.

He added that the government has been in communication with Israeli officials at the ministerial level, although he declined to elaborate on the specifics of those discussions.

As of now, the government remains cautious, asserting that the drone attack on the vessel is still an allegation and not a verified fact. “The moment we confirm it’s humanitarian aid for Gaza, we will take care of the repairs,” Abela reiterated.

Malta’s position underscores its commitment to ensuring that any aid reaching Gaza is legitimate and properly documented. The ship, which is reportedly carrying critical supplies, has yet to reach its destination as it waits for the situation to be resolved.

The ongoing standoff has sparked discussions about the complexities of humanitarian aid delivery and the scrutiny of vessels heading to Gaza amid heightened security concerns. Malta, a member of the European Union, has long navigated a delicate balance between supporting humanitarian efforts and adhering to international regulations and security protocols.

-Photo Department of Information Malta-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews