The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has signaled it may take strong remedial action against Spain as it reviews restrictions imposed on vessels carrying cargo to or from Israel. The measures under consideration range from cargo limitations and port-entry denials to significant financial penalties, as the regulator examines whether Spain’s policies are harming U.S. foreign trade and violating international shipping norms.
FMC Investigation and Possible Remedies
The FMC’s investigation, which began in December 2024, is focused on Spain’s policy of denying port access to certain vessels linked to Israel-related cargo flows. According to the commission, potential remedies could include limiting cargo movements, denying Spanish-flagged vessels entry to U.S. ports, or imposing fines of up to $2.3 million per voyage.
The regulator is currently seeking additional input from carriers, shippers, and other stakeholders to better understand how Spain’s policy is enforced and its broader impact on U.S. shipping interests. While no final determination has yet been made, the FMC stated that the inquiry is assessing whether Spain’s actions are creating “general or special conditions unfavorable to shipping in U.S. foreign trade” under U.S. law.
Impact on U.S.-Flagged Vessels and Trade
A related Federal Register notice confirmed that Spain refused docking privileges at APM terminals in Algeciras to three U.S.-flagged vessels Maersk Denver, Maersk Nysted, and Maersk Seletar in November 2024. These ships operate under the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Maritime Security Program and were operated or supplied by Maersk Line Limited.
The policy stems from a broader announcement by Spain in September 2025, outlining a “multi-faceted” approach to halt certain Israel-linked flows by air and sea. This includes banning ships and aircraft transporting weapons bound for Israel, as well as tankers carrying fuel intended for Israeli military use, from accessing Spanish ports and airspace. The FMC is now examining whether these measures disproportionately affect U.S.-flagged shipping and undermine established maritime trade principles.
With a public comment deadline set for February 20, 2026, the FMC’s review could lead to significant consequences for Spanish shipping interests if remedial action is taken. The outcome of the investigation may also set an important precedent for how unilateral port access restrictions are treated under U.S. maritime law. As global shipping continues to navigate geopolitical tensions, the FMC’s decision will be closely watched by carriers, governments, and trade stakeholders worldwide.
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Source: FMC
