The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) expressed strong condemnation of attacks against international shipping in the Red Sea and called for the immediate release of the hijacked car carrier, Galaxy Leader, and its crew. The vessel, owned by Ray Car Carriers and chartered by NYK, was seized by Houthi Militia in mid-November, sparking a crisis that has seen over 30 commercial vessels attacked in the following two months. The Galaxy Leader and its 25 crew are currently being held hostage in Houthi-controlled Yemen.
The Secretary-General emphasized three key messages regarding the situation: the importance of prioritizing the safety of seafarers, upholding the principle of freedom of navigation for safe trade of essential goods, and calling for de-escalation of the situation. The ongoing crisis in the Red Sea has raised concerns about the safety and security of international shipping, and the Secretary-General’s statements reflect the IMO’s commitment to addressing these issues.
The Secretary-General’s remarks were made at the opening of the 10th Session of the IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction, highlighting the urgency and significance of the situation in the Red Sea. The IMO’s strong stance against attacks on international shipping and its advocacy for the safety of seafarers and freedom of navigation underscores the organization’s dedication to addressing maritime security concerns.
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