The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, expressed his relief at the release of the 25-member crew of the MV Galaxy Leader, who had been held captive for over a year. The crew was taken hostage in November 2023 while passing through the Red Sea. This development is not only a cause for celebration for the crew and their families but also for the wider maritime community.
The Secretary-General extended his gratitude to the Member States, regional entities, and international partners whose unwavering support and strategic efforts played a crucial role in securing the crew’s freedom and ensuring their well-being. This successful outcome highlights the importance of collective diplomacy and dialogue in resolving such situations and emphasizes the need to protect innocent seafarers from becoming victims of broader geopolitical tensions.
Today’s breakthrough signifies a return to normal operations in the Red Sea and underscores the importance of upholding the freedom of navigation. The IMO remains committed to ensuring the safety of seafarers worldwide, who continue to face risks in carrying out their essential work. This positive development serves as a reminder of the power of international cooperation in addressing maritime security challenges and protecting the rights of seafarers.
