Israel rejects Russian grain ship amid EU sanctions warning

Israel has barred a Russian grain ship carrying wheat from occupied Ukrainian territory following threats of sanctions from the European Union.

The vessel, named Panormitis, was carrying approximately 6,000 tonnes of grain valued at around $7 million destined for the Israeli port of Haifa.

The Israeli Grain Importers Association stated it was compelled to refuse the ship and advised the Russian supplier to find an alternative port to unload the cargo.

This action comes amid wider Russian operations accused of stealing an estimated 850,000 tonnes of Ukrainian grain.

The Ukrainian foreign ministry has actively sought to halt this black market trade, while the EU has warned Israeli entities involved with sanctions.

EU ambassadors in Israel lodged complaints with the Israeli foreign ministry, emphasizing their readiness to impose sanctions on individuals and entities in third countries if necessary.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar affirmed that Israel adheres to the rule of law and that all authorities would act accordingly in this matter.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian foreign minister Andrii Sibyha welcomed Israel's decision, highlighting it as a clear message to other parties not to engage in the trade of stolen Ukrainian grain.

The dispute underscores ongoing tensions related to the illegal export of Ukrainian grain amid the conflict, with the EU seeking to prevent actions that fund Russia's military efforts.

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