Ten Filipino seafarers, recently attacked by Houthi rebels in the Gulf of Aden, will receive support from the Department of Migrant Workers upon their arrival in Manila. DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac announced assistance in securing new employment, along with medical services and psychological counseling to aid their recovery.
The Netherlands has urged the European Union to label Yemen’s Houthi movement as a terrorist organization following their attack on the Dutch cargo ship Minervagracht. Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel highlighted the ongoing threat to maritime safety, linking the assaults to the broader conflict involving Israel and Gaza.
Houthi militants have intensified attacks on Israel and related shipping, despite no new threats. This increase follows Israel’s commitment to counter Houthi actions, especially after the use of cluster bombs. The UK Maritime Trade Operations warned of an incident involving an “unknown projectile” in the Red Sea, highlighting rising regional tensions.
A merchant vessel narrowly escaped an attack off Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, an area usually safe for maritime traffic. This incident followed an Israeli airstrike on Houthi leaders, raising security concerns. The crew reported a loud bang but remained unharmed, while investigations into the incident are underway.
The Houthi-run Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) has issued new FAQs, ensuring safe passage for vessels in key maritime regions, provided they aren’t linked to sanctioned entities. While this initiative aims to facilitate transit, experts warn it may primarily serve to legitimize Houthi control rather than genuinely assist maritime operations.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the nine Filipino crew members of the MV Eternity C, held by Houthi rebels, are in good condition and maintaining contact with their families. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized ongoing collaboration with foreign governments to monitor their welfare and facilitate their release.
Yemen’s Houthi rebels released a video of the bulk carrier Magic Seas sinking after an attack. The footage shows explosions on the ship’s side, followed by rebels boarding the vessel. With the crew rescued, militants detonated explosives below the waterline, leading to the ship’s rapid flooding and eventual sinking.
The Houthis have remained at Ras Isa port, despite US military strikes two weeks prior. Numerous ships, including tankers, are anchored, facing denied departures even after UN inspections. Escalating violence risks for vessels in Houthi-controlled waters were highlighted by incidents involving armed personnel boarding ships. Casualties from strikes reached 74.
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis, led by Abdulmalik al-Houthi, have threatened to launch attacks on Israel if it resumes its assault on Gaza. The group has previously targeted Israeli vessels in solidarity with Gaza’s Palestinians. Al-Houthi stated they are prepared to escalate against Israel if the situation in Gaza worsens.
In 2023, rebels with Iranian backing released 25 sailors from the Bahamas-flagged Galaxy Leader after mediation by Oman. The crew, consisting of mariners from various countries, was hijacked due to the ship’s connection to Israel. Despite a recent ceasefire, the rebels warned of potential resumption of attacks on ships in international waters.
Yemen’s Houthis have announced a ceasefire in Gaza and will limit attacks on commercial vessels to those linked to Israel. The HOCC warned of resumed attacks if the U.S., Britain, or Israel strike Yemen. This decision shows strategic planning and restraint. The impact on shipping operations remains uncertain, highlighting the need for continued diplomatic efforts.
Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi vows to continue military operations in support of Palestinians amid Israeli aggression. Over 100 attacks on commercial vessels by Houthis since late 2023, with a decrease in 2024. Uncertainty surrounds the reopening of the Red Sea, as industry experts monitor the situation cautiously. Naval forces’ assurance is crucial.
According to the Daily Tribune, Filipino seafarers are facing dangers like piracy and armed conflict in high-risk maritime zones. The DMW shared that 740 seafarers have been attacked in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Despite government efforts, stronger safety protocols are needed to protect these vulnerable workers from direct threats.
A team from the international Red Cross visited the 25-member crew aboard the Galaxy Leader vessel, hijacked by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Hodeidah. Coordinated with local authorities, the visit aimed to monitor detention conditions and facilitate communication with families. Crew members from various countries are reportedly in good health, but some face health issues.
Yemen’s Houthi group has granted permission for tugboats and rescue ships to reach the damaged crude oil tanker, the Sounion, in the Red Sea. The tanker, carrying 150,000 tonnes of oil, poses a significant environmental threat. The Houthis agreed to allow access after international pressure, despite ongoing conflict in the region.
