One Year Mark of Galaxy Leader Crew’s Captivity: Global Support and Human Rights Concerns

The crew of the hijacked vessel Galaxy Leader will mark a year in captivity at the hands of Houthi forces on November 19, 2024. The 25-member crew from various countries like Bulgaria, Ukraine, Philippines, Mexico, and Romania were captured after armed Houthi militants boarded the Bahamas-flagged car carrier on November 19, 2023. The ship was hijacked in the Red Sea, and the crew was taken hostage as the vessel was diverted to the port of Hodeidah in Yemen. On the one-year anniversary of the hijacking, the Catholic Maritime Charity Stella Maris will organize a special Mass and prayer vigil on November 19 to show support for the crew and their families.

Despite being confined to the vessel for a year, with limited communication and no access to proper medical care, the crew remains in captivity. Reports from the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs indicate that the crew’s health has deteriorated, with many showing symptoms of malaria. The situation has sparked global outrage, with Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), expressing concern over the prolonged captivity. The Houthis have escalated their attacks on ships since the hijacking, using drones and missiles, targeting over 100 ships, sinking two, and causing casualties.

The hijacking of the Galaxy Leader highlights the ongoing risks faced by seafarers in conflict zones. The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) continues to demand the immediate release of the crew, citing human rights violations. Platten emphasized the need for humanity to prevail and called for the crew’s immediate release. The maritime community stands in solidarity with the crew and their families, hoping for a resolution to the situation and the safe return of the seafarers.

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