Yemen’s Houthi Rebels Release Crew Of Seized Vessel Amid Ceasefire Efforts

Yemen’s Houthi rebels have released the crew of the Galaxy Leader after mediation by Oman. This event follows their capture of the vessel in November 2023 amid rising tensions due to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The Houthis claim the release aligns with a ceasefire agreement in Gaza and reflects a request from Hamas.

In a significant development, Yemen’s Houthi rebels have announced the release of the crew from the Galaxy Leader, a commercial vessel they had seized in November 2023. This release follows mediation efforts facilitated by Oman, which has a history of acting as an intermediary with the Houthis. Although Oman has yet to officially confirm this release, an Omani Royal Air Force aircraft was observed traveling to Yemen around the same time.

The Houthi rebels stated that the release of the 25 sailors, who hail from various nations including the Philippines, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, and Mexico, was influenced by a request from Hamas, the Palestinian militant group. The Houthis communicated that this action is intended to support a ceasefire agreement concerning the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

The seizure of the Galaxy Leader occurred during a series of Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea corridor, coinciding with the escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The rebels stated they targeted the vessel due to its affiliations with Israeli interests, significantly impacting maritime traffic through this critical shipping route. The recent ceasefire in Gaza has prompted the Houthis to limit their attacks, but concerns remain regarding the safety of shipping in the region.

In conclusion, the release of the Galaxy Leader’s crew marks a crucial development in the Houthi engagement with international maritime operations. Despite the announcement of limited future attacks, the broader implications for shipping lanes in the Red Sea remain uncertain as stability is sought in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The mediation of Oman underlines the sultanate’s role as a pivotal player in regional diplomacy.

Original Source: apnews.com