Yemen's Houthi rebels have released the crew of the Galaxy Leader, a vehicle carrier seized in November 2023 during their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea corridor. The release of the crew, which included mariners from the Philippines, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, and Mexico, came after mediation by Oman. The sailors were greeted with smiles as they stepped into freedom in Muscat.
The release of the crew is seen as a move by the Houthis to de-escalate their attacks following a ceasefire in Gaza. The Houthis stated that the release was in support of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and was also a response to a request from Hamas.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines confirmed the release of 17 Filipino crew members, expressing utmost joy at their freedom. Bulgaria's Foreign Ministry also confirmed the release of two Bulgarians, the ship's captain, and assistant captain.
The Galaxy Leader, affiliated with Israeli billionaire Abraham “Rami” Ungar, was hijacked by the Houthis over its connection to Israel. The rebels have targeted over 100 merchant vessels since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, sinking two ships and killing four sailors.
The release of the crew may be an attempt by the Houthis to curry favor with the U.S., as President Trump has moved to reinstate a terrorism designation on the group. The U.S. and its partners have conducted over 260 airstrikes against the Houthis in response to their maritime attacks.
While the tempo of Houthi attacks has slowed in recent weeks, concerns remain about the impact on cargo and energy shipments moving between Asia and Europe. The Houthis have warned that wider assaults could resume if needed, despite limiting their attacks to Israeli-affiliated ships in the Red Sea corridor.
