Galaxy Leader manager appeals for release of crew by Houthis

Managers of the Galaxy Leader cargo ship have renewed their calls for the release of 25 crew members who have been held by Yemen’s Houthi militants for seven months. The militants attacked the Bahamas-flagged ship with helicopters on November 19, capturing the shipmaster, chief officer, and crew members from Bulgaria, the Philippines, Ukraine, Mexico, and Romania. The managers have stated that there is no benefit for the Houthis in keeping the crew members and have requested their immediate release to their families.

The Houthi militants have been carrying out attacks using drones and missiles in the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the Gulf of Aden since November. These attacks have resulted in the sinking of one ship, the seizure of another vessel, and the death of three seafarers. The International Chamber of Shipping has condemned these actions as unacceptable aggression that endangers innocent lives and merchant shipping. Recent direct strikes on two ships, the Tutor coal carrier and the Verbena loaded with construction material, have highlighted the increased effectiveness of the Houthi militants’ drone and missile attacks.

In response to the escalating situation, U.S. and British forces conducted airstrikes targeting Yemen’s Hodeidah International Airport and Kamaran Island near the port of Salif off the Red Sea. The damaged ships, including the Tutor and Verbena, are now at risk of further attacks or sinking, with one sailor still missing. Overall, the situation remains tense as efforts continue to ensure the safety of crews and vessels in the region.

Source .