The MV Galaxy Leader was seized by the Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah, in November 2023 as part of their attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea to support the Palestinian cause in Gaza. The 25 sailors on board, from various countries, were taken hostage.
‘Heartwarming news’
“The release of the Galaxy Leader crew is heartwarming news that brings an end to their detention and separation from their families for over a year,” stated Special Envoy Hans Grundberg in a statement. He praised this as “a step in the right direction” and urged the Houthis to continue positive actions, including ceasing maritime attacks.
These steps are crucial for enhancing mediation in Yemen, where the Houthis and Government forces, supported by a Saudi coalition, have been in a prolonged civil conflict for more than a decade.
Advocacy by Oman
Grundberg expressed thanks to Oman for their unwavering efforts to secure the crew’s release. He also acknowledged Oman’s support in advocating for the release of UN, international organizations, and diplomatic staff, who have been held by the Houthis for over a year.
Diplomacy and dialogue
In a separate statement, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez described the release of the crew as “a moment of profound relief for all of us”, emphasizing the importance of collective diplomacy and dialogue to prevent innocent seafarers from becoming victims of geopolitical tensions.
He highlighted that the move enables the return to normal operations in the Red Sea while upholding freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers.
Shipping, airstrikes and ceasefire
The MV Galaxy Leader, chartered by Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen and affiliated with an Israeli businessman, is registered in The Bahamas. Following the Gaza conflict in October 2023, the Houthis started attacking merchant ships and launching projectiles at Israel.
In response, the US and UK carried out retaliatory strikes against the rebels, with Israel also targeting Houthi sites in Yemen. Recently, Israel and Hamas declared a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, effective from Sunday.
