IMF calls on Houthis to stop all attacks and release kidnapped seafarers

The International Shipping Federation called on the Houthi militia in Yemen to stop all attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, calm threats to shipping and release all seafarers held hostage.

This came in a statement by the union on Monday, commenting on the Houthis’ decision to suspend attacks on cargo ships, with the exception of Israeli cargo ships.

“The Houthis announced on Sunday that they would suspend their attacks on non-Israeli vessels following the new Gaza ceasefire – while maintaining threats to Israeli-owned or Israeli-flagged vessels until all phases of the ceasefire agreement are implemented,” the union said in a statement. “The group also announced a conditional lifting of ‘sanctions’ on vessels linked to Israel, the US and the UK, depending on how the ceasefire progresses.”

He added, "This announcement comes after hundreds of missile and drone attacks carried out by the Houthis on ships crossing the Red Sea, sinking two ships, killing at least four sailors, and destabilizing one of the most important shipping lanes in the world."

“For too long, seafarers working in these waters have had to take unacceptable risks,” said Stephen Cotton, ISU Secretary General.

"Promises alone will not save lives. We need to ensure lasting calm now," he added.

Stephen Cotton called on the Houthis to immediately cease all hostilities, release all crew currently detained and provide concrete assurances that no other seafarers will suffer the same fate.

"Until that happens, shipping companies and charterers must take every possible step to avoid putting seafarers' lives at risk in this area," he continued.

Immediate release of the kidnapped sailors

Regarding the kidnapped seafarers, the statement said: Despite this announcement, the International Shipping Federation remains deeply concerned about the continued detention by the Houthis of the crew of the Galaxy Leader, which was seized on 19 November 2023 - and the International Shipping Federation calls for their immediate and unconditional release.

“The safety of kidnapped seafarers must remain a priority in these rapidly evolving situations,” said David Hindle, ISF Seafarers’ Section President and ISF President.

“We urge the Houthi leadership to take immediate steps towards releasing all captured sailors – this is an urgent and necessary matter,” he added.

"Don't risk more people's lives"

The International Shipping Association urged shipping companies and charterers to divert ships away from the danger zone so that the safety of seafarers could be ensured.

Despite the Houthis' statements, many in the industry warn that the Red Sea trade route remains "risky" for the foreseeable future.

“The ITF is committed to working with governments, industry stakeholders and all relevant parties to find a lasting solution,” said Heindl. “However, until clear and verifiable safeguards are in place to ensure the safe passage of vessels through the Red Sea, we urge the industry to prioritise seafarer safety above all else.”

He stressed that "their well-being should never be compromised for commercial reasons."

The statement concluded by saying: “The fragile security situation in the region cannot withstand further broken promises – and this pivotal moment should pave the way for long-term stability and protection of civilians, including transport workers, across the wider region.”