UN and IMO Praise Release of MV Galaxy Leader Crew From Houthi Detention
The UN and IMO welcomed the release of 25 sailors held by Houthis for over a year. Special Envoy Hans Grundberg noted the release as a positive step, urging an end to maritime attacks. Omani advocacy was acknowledged for its role in the release, and the safety of seafarers was emphasized amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, and the head of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, expressed their approval of the recent release of 25 sailors from the MV Galaxy Leader, who were held by Houthi rebels for over a year. This ship was seized in November 2023 amid the Houthis’ actions in the Red Sea as part of their support for the Palestinian cause in Gaza. The sailors, originating from diverse nations, were taken hostage during these events.
Mr. Grundberg described the release as a “heartwarming news” that concludes the arbitrary detention faced by the crew and their families. He emphasized that this development is “a step in the right direction” and urged the Houthis to maintain this positive momentum by ceasing all maritime attacks. His remarks highlighted the importance of these steps for facilitating mediation efforts in Yemen, where prolonged conflict continues between Houthi forces and the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi coalition.
Grundberg also acknowledged and expressed gratitude to Oman for its relentless advocacy for the crew’s release, which he described as vital in drawing attention to the situation of more than 60 other detained personnel in the region. The Houthis have detained these individuals, all Yemeni nationals, for an extended period.
In a separate statement, IMO Secretary-General Dominguez called the sailors’ release “a moment of profound relief for all of us,” extending his concern to the entire maritime community. He characterized the outcome as a demonstration of how collective diplomacy can safeguard the innocent and stressed the need to protect seafarers from becoming collateral damage in global geopolitical conflicts. Dominguez noted the importance of resuming operations in the Red Sea and maintaining freedom of navigation.
Reports indicate that the MV Galaxy Leader is linked to an Israeli businessman and was chartered by the Japanese shipping firm Nippon Yusen, with registration in The Bahamas. The Houthi attacks on merchant vessels commenced following the escalation of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, which has also seen the use of missiles and drones aimed at Israel. This sparked retaliatory military operations from the United States and the United Kingdom against Houthi positions, alongside Israeli airstrikes targeting Houthi sites in Yemen.
Thus far, the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which went into effect recently, has further complicated the dynamics in the region, with potential implications for maritime security in the Red Sea.
The incident surrounding the MV Galaxy Leader underscores the complexities of geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly how they affect international shipping and the safety of maritime personnel. The Houthis’ seizure of the vessel and subsequent attacks highlight the ongoing civil conflict in Yemen and the involvement of various international actors. The UN envoy’s statements reflect an urgency for continued diplomatic efforts amidst a backdrop of prolonged conflict that affects global shipping routes and regional stability.
The release of the crew from the MV Galaxy Leader marks a significant diplomatic achievement amid ongoing tensions in Yemen and surrounding regions. As expressed by UN and IMO officials, this event is a crucial step towards improving maritime safety and facilitating further dialogue. Continued advocacy and negotiations are essential to resolve the broader conflict and ensure the safety of international seafarers.
Original Source: news.un.org
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