In a recent international operation, Portuguese authorities seized a narco-submarine in the Atlantic Ocean. The semi-submersible was carrying over 1.7 tonnes of cocaine destined for the Iberian Peninsula. The operation, code-named El Dorado, involved multiple agencies including Portugal’s PJ and navy, with support from the UK’s NCA and the US DEA. The four Venezuelan crew members were arrested, and the vessel was escorted to port.
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A French-flagged sailboat experienced an orca attack near Peniche, Portugal, resulting in the loss of its rudder. The National Maritime Authority (AMN) responded to the distress call, rescuing the five crew members, who were reported to be unharmed. The sailboat was subsequently towed to Peniche by the Lifeguard Service to prevent navigational hazards. An inspection of the vessel will be conducted before it is permitted to sail again.
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Emergency services reported that a deadly accident occurred on Wednesday when Lisbon’s Gloria funicular railway car derailed and crashed, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and approximately 18 injuries. The crash, considered the worst in the city’s recent history, involved a popular tourist attraction and symbol of Lisbon, leaving several in serious condition. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident, which took place during rush hour. Scheduled maintenance had been carried out prior to the incident, and the city has since suspended operations of other streetcars while offering its condolences and declaring a day of mourning.
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Portugal is considering recognizing the State of Palestine at the United Nations, with a decision potentially being made during the UN General Assembly in September. This follows “multiple contacts” with international partners and is prompted by the escalating humanitarian crisis and concerns of annexation of Palestinian territories. The Portuguese government’s decision aligns with similar considerations from France, the United Kingdom, and Canada, all of which have expressed intentions to diplomatically recognize a Palestinian state amidst growing international concern. The move also comes as a result of a “worst-case famine scenario” being reported in Gaza.
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Portugal’s planned acquisition of the F-35 fighter jet has been cancelled due to concerns over the unpredictable nature of the US administration under the Trump presidency and its impact on NATO alliances. The high acquisition and operational costs of the F-35, coupled with potential threats of reduced US support, also contributed to this decision. While the F-35 was initially preferred, Portugal is now exploring alternative European fighter jet options, such as the Rafale, Typhoon, and Gripen, with any new aircraft unlikely to enter service before the next decade.
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Portugal’s planned F-35 fighter jet procurement is now unlikely due to shifting U.S. policy toward NATO and concerns over potential limitations on the aircraft’s capabilities. Defense Minister Nuno Melo cites uncertainty surrounding the current U.S. administration’s stance on NATO and its defense commitments as a major factor in this decision. This reevaluation reflects a broader trend among European nations reconsidering their defense strategies in light of changing geopolitical dynamics. Alternative fighter jet options, including European-made aircraft, are now under consideration for replacing Portugal’s aging F-16 fleet.
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As an individual closely following international affairs, the recent takeover of the Israel-linked Portuguese vessel MCS ARIES by Iranian forces has left me perplexed and concerned. The ship, sailing under the Portuguese flag with a crew consisting of Filipino workers, seems to have fallen victim to a misguided act of aggression by Iran. The ship’s only tenuous connection to Israel is through its partial ownership by an Israeli mogul, even though both the owner and the company are based in Monaco. This takeover highlights the irrationality and recklessness of Iran’s actions on the global stage.
The fact that this seizure was carried out by the Iranian navy, rather than a proxy group, adds a layer of complexity to the situation.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker