Minister: The launch of “Galaxy Leader” is a Houthi attempt to cover up a full-fledged piracy crime.

The Yemeni Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Muammar Al-Eryani, has criticized the recent announcement by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia regarding the release of the crew of the hijacked vessel “Galaxy Leader.” He emphasized that this move should not be seen as a gesture of goodwill or a humanitarian achievement.

Delayed Release and Allegations of Piracy

In a press statement, Al-Eryani highlighted that the release of the “Galaxy Leader” crew, a Japanese-operated car carrier hijacked by the Houthi militia on November 19, 2023, is a blatant attempt to manipulate facts. The crew, comprising 25 sailors from the Philippines, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, and Mexico, was held under harsh conditions for over 15 months. Al-Eryani described this as a full-fledged act of piracy on a commercial vessel in international waters.

International Concerns and Human Rights Violations

Al-Eryani stressed that this release does not erase the suffering endured by the sailors and their families. He urged the international community to recognize the illegal actions of the Houthi militia and their human rights violations. He also reminded everyone that the Houthis have not only detained the ship and its crew but have also carried out a series of Iranian-backed terrorist attacks on international shipping lanes in the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb, and the Gulf of Aden.

Threats to Maritime Security

The minister warned that the continued control of parts of Yemen’s coastline and the three ports of Hodeidah by the Houthi militia poses a serious threat to maritime security. These actions negatively impact global trade routes, necessitating urgent international intervention. Al-Eryani called for decisive steps to ensure freedom of navigation and protect maritime security, ensuring the safety of naval crews.

Call for International Action

Al-Eryani urged the international community and the United Nations to take punitive measures against the Houthi militia. He advocated for their immediate designation as a “global terrorist organization,” the drying up of their financial, political, and media resources, and the imposition of trade and international relations restrictions. Furthermore, he called for laws imposing sanctions on Houthi leaders, freezing their assets, and banning their travel. He also emphasized the need for genuine support for the legitimate government to regain control over all Yemeni territories and stabilize this vital maritime passage.

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