Iran-Backed Houthis Release "Galaxy Leader" Crew After Omani Mediation

The Iran-backed Houthi group announced on Wednesday that they have released the crew of the "Galaxy Leader" ship through Omani mediation after 14 months of captivity. Al-Masirah, the group's official channel, reported that the release was directed by Abdul-Malik al-Houthi.
The crew, seized on November 19, 2023, includes a Bulgarian chief sailor, 17 Vietnamese, and others from Ukraine, Mexico, and Romania. The ship was taken under the claim that it was owned by an Israeli businessman.
Since November, the Houthis have targeted commercial ships in the Red and Arabian Seas, causing increased insurance costs and rerouting of international shipping.
In response, U.S. and British forces have conducted strikes on Houthi positions since January 12.