EU and Turkish Shipping Company in Standoff Over Weapons Inspections

The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) recently raised concerns about the Turkish shipping company, Arkas Line. The company is currently in conflict with the EU over inspections of its vessels. One of Arkas’ Turkish-registered container ships refused to allow an inspection requested by EUNAVFOR’s IRINI operation on September 8. This refusal continues the disagreement between the company and the European Union.

What is Operation IRINI?

Operation IRINI was created in 2020 by the European Union to enforce United Nations (UN) rules that aim to stop weapons from being shipped into Libya. This is important because Libya has been facing ongoing conflict, and outside countries are not allowed to send arms into the country. In the past four years, IRINI has contacted over 1,000 ships to ask for permission to inspect them. More than 500 ships have agreed to these inspections. If a ship is found carrying illegal weapons, it is sent to an EU port for further action. IRINI also monitors flights going into Libya to ensure that no illegal arms are transported by air.

Arkas Line and the Standoff

One of Arkas Line’s ships, Matilde A, was involved in the latest dispute. This ship left Turkey on September 7, heading for Libya. The next day, EUNAVFOR IRINI contacted the ship, asking for permission to board and inspect it. However, Turkey refused this request. This has happened before—Arkas Line has a history of saying “no” to similar inspection requests.

Since 1996, Arkas Line has operated cargo ships, providing service between ports in the Mediterranean, West Africa, and the Black Sea. Despite being in the shipping industry for a long time, the company has regularly refused to allow inspections by IRINI. For example, they rejected six requests in 2021, three in 2022, two in 2023, and now one in 2024.

Turkey’s Role in Libya

The Turkish government has been in conflict with the European Union and the UN over the situation in Libya. Turkey maintains a military presence in the country, which it says is “legitimate” and helps to stabilize the region. However, the EU and UN disagree and have put rules in place to prevent the flow of arms into Libya.

Recently, Turkey signed a new agreement with Libya, which allows it to provide additional military support, including training, weapons, and drones. This new alliance would break the UN Security Council’s rules. Turkey also says it has given Libya modern air defense systems and other military support.

Turkey A Major Crude Oil Exporter and Major Oil Player in the Mediterranean

Arkas’ Contradiction

Interestingly, Arkas Line has posted on its website that it joined the UN Global Compact in 2023. This is a platform that encourages businesses to act responsibly and promote transparency. However, their refusal to cooperate with the EU and UN inspections seems to go against the idea of responsible business practices.

Conclusion

The ongoing standoff between Turkey’s Arkas Line and the European Union highlights the complexities of international politics and business. While Arkas Line refuses ship inspections, Turkey continues to support Libya, creating tension with the EU and UN. This situation is a reminder of how important global cooperation is, especially when it comes to enforcing peace and security.