IMO Sec-Gen calls for immediate release of Galaxy Leader and crewIMO Sec-Gen calls for immediate release of Galaxy Leader and crew

Speaking at the opening of the 10th Session of the IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction on Monday Secretary-General Dominguez took the opportunity to highlight the situation in the Red Sea.

“I wish to take this opportunity to reiterate my strong condemnation of attacks against international shipping in the area and call for an immediate release of the Galaxy Leader and its crew,” he said.

The car carrier Galaxy Leader owned by Ray Car Carriers and chartered by NYK was hijacked by Houthi Militia in the Red Sea in mid-November starting a crisis that has seen over 30 commercial vessels attacked in the following two months. The vessel and its 25 crew continue to be held hostage in Houthi controlled Yemen.

“I will continue to reiterate my three key messages on the situation: seafarers are innocent victims, and their safety is paramount; the principle of freedom of navigation should be uphold and allow safe trade of essential goods; and call for de-escalation of the situation,” the Sec-Gen stated.