Momentum calls for transparency on Malta’s Maritime Security and Ecological preparedness

Momentum is expressing grave concern over the escalating security situation in the central Mediterranean. The recent attack on the Arctic Metagaz, a vessel reported to be carrying 61,000 tonnes of LNG and 700 tonnes of diesel fuel, further exposes severe vulnerabilities in the security systems guarding the seas surrounding our islands. The vessel’s current trajectory threatens the fragile ecosystems of our coastline, specifically the western shores of the island of Gozo.

This alarming event follows the deeply worrying incident last May when a drone of unknown origin struck a Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship just outside Maltese territorial waters.

These events cast a long, dark shadow over our ecological, food and maritime security.

Malta’s reality as a small and arid nation means we rely on importing 70% of our agricultural products, primarily from neighbouring Sicily. A maritime zone actively targeted by drones directly jeopardises this vital supply chain. Furthermore, this volatile situation poses an unacceptable threat to the livelihood of Maltese fishermen, who rely on safe, stable seas to earn their living.

The ecological implications are equally disastrous. Malta ranks among the top ten countries globally for water scarcity, depending almost entirely on desalination plants for drinking water. Any pollution of the surrounding sea resulting from a maritime attack or sunken vessel would  mean our taps run dry. It would be a national disaster of unprecedented proportions.

Mark Camilleri Gambin, General Secretary of Momentum, stated: “The Prime Minister must be transparent with the public about Malta’s actual state of preparedness. 

Yesterday evening, on RAI news, Minister Bonett stated that at the moment Malta is not so worried, since the wind is pushing the vessel towards Libya. This is not reassuring. We cannot play Russian roulette with such dangerous circumstances.

Relying on foreign intervention, or even wind conditions, while ignoring our own vulnerabilities is a failure of good governance. We have a right to know how exposed we truly are and that our government has a clear plan of action.”

Momentum believes that good governance requires honesty, especially in times of crisis. We are formally asking the Prime Minister and the relevant authorities to answer one vital question. Does Malta possess the capability to prevent an ecological disaster on its own? If not, how are we coordinating the emptying of the fuel on board, together with our Italian neighbours and European partners?

Our citizens deserve a secure future, a just economy, and a government that plans for the worst while striving for the best. Momentum will continue to push for proactive governance as we fight for a safer, more beautiful Malta.

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