Japan announced on Monday that it is actively engaging with Houthi rebels to secure the release of the Galaxy Leader, a cargo ship hijacked in the Red Sea. The vessel, owned by an Israeli businessman and operated by the Japanese firm Nippon Yusen (NYK Line), was attacked by Yemeni rebels in response to what they termed as “heinous acts” committed by Israel in Gaza.
Japan’s Foreign Minister, Yoko Kamikawa, condemned the ship’s seizure and disclosed that Tokyo is in direct communication with both the Houthi rebels and Israel. The Japanese government is also urging concerned nations, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, to join efforts in persuading the rebels to release the ship and its crew promptly.
“We are communicating with Israel and, in addition to directly approaching the Houthis, we are urging other concerned countries to strongly press for the early release of the vessel and crew members,” stated Foreign Minister Kamikawa. She emphasized that Japan will continue taking necessary measures in cooperation with the involved nations.
Israel swiftly attributed the attack to “Iranian terrorism,” vowing consequences for international maritime security. However, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree denied Iran’s involvement, urging the international community to focus on ending Israel’s aggression against Gaza.
The Galaxy Leader, a vehicle transport ship, was manned by a diverse 25-person international crew at the time of the attack, including Ukrainians, Bulgarians, Filipinos, and Mexicans, but no Israelis, according to Israeli sources. The Houthis have previously launched missile and drone attacks against Israel, prompting concerns about regional security.
As tensions escalate, the international community is closely watching the situation, with Japan taking a lead in diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis and ensure the safety of the hijacked vessel and its crew.
