The government of the Philippines has confirmed that efforts are being made to secure the release of the crewmembers of the hijacked car carrier Galaxy Leader. Reports indicate that some Filipino crewmembers are unwell, prompting calls for a humanitarian release. The vessel has been held in Yemen since November 19, 2023, when it was seized by Houthi military forces while en route from Turkey to India. The attack marked the first incident involving shipping since the start of the conflict in Gaza.
The whereabouts of the 25 crewmembers, including 17 Filipinos, remain uncertain, with reports suggesting they have been living aboard the vessel for nearly 10 months. Concerns have been raised about their health, with several crewmembers reportedly suffering from malaria. Specialized doctors have been dispatched to provide medical assistance to the crew.
Despite calls for their release by both Ray Car Carriers and the Philippine government, negotiations have proven challenging due to the complex political situation in Yemen and the broader conflict in Gaza. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Department of Foreign Affairs are urging for the immediate humanitarian release of the crewmembers, emphasizing their innocence in the ongoing conflict. Further developments are awaited following recent meetings in Yemen.
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