Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
31 July 2025 | 18:15 CAT

📸 Protesters paint a massive Palestinian flag with messages reading “STOP WARS” and “FREE PALESTINE,” reflecting growing resistance.

A Latvian-flagged cargo vessel, the MVU Alta Marine, recently docked at the Durban harbour under intense scrutiny, marking a pivotal test for South Africa’s “Block the Boat” movement. While no weapons were found onboard, the ship’s arrival catalysed a wave of local activism, renewed civic pressure, and broader calls for South African ports to remain free of complicity in war crimes.

According to Nasiha Soomar, Executive Member of the South African Palestine Movement (SAPM), the inspection was thorough and credible. “The ship came from Chennai, India, and docked at two other African ports before Durban,” she told Radio Islam International. “Government agencies conducted a full inspection before it entered our harbour, and we are confident that no arms were aboard.”

Still, the absence of weapons did not diminish the symbolic and strategic value of the moment. “This was a test run,” said Soomar. “It gave us the opportunity to engage with port security, customs, and enforcement agencies. We thank them for fulfilling their duty in accordance with both South African and international law.”

Crucially, the movement views this inspection as a rehearsal for future resistance, especially amid rising international concern about arms shipments potentially fuelling Israel’s military campaign. “There’s urgency,” said Soomar, “because Palestinians are facing forced starvation and being targeted while seeking food. We are now better equipped to mobilise.”

SAPM has vowed to remain alert. “We know how to act, who to contact, and which channels to activate. Any ship heading into Durban with questionable cargo will be met with resistance,” she said. “South African ports must never be used to facilitate war crimes or genocide.”

Reflecting on the broader impact, Soomar highlighted the power of civil society amplified by social media. “The world is watching South Africa. We’ve been contacted by international outlets including the BBC and Middle East Monitor. There are no limits to what we can do if we organise.”

Looking ahead, the movement calls for greater transparency in port procedures. “We had to go through several channels to get answers,” she explained. “That must change. Accountability and justice demand clearer processes for public engagement.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Moulana Shuaib Lasanya and Nasiha Soomar.