A joint statement released by the U. S., the E.U., NATO, and 44 Allies and partner nations condemn Houthi rebels interference with navigational rights and freedoms in the waters around the Arabian Peninsula, particularly the Red Sea.
The statement found that the numerous attacks originating from Houthi-controlled territories in Yemen “threaten international commerce and maritime security”.
It added “The Houthi-led seizure of the Galaxy Leader on November 19 and the detention of its 25-member international crew – who remain unjustly detained – is appalling. Such behavior also threatens the movement of food, fuel, humanitarian assistance, and other essential commodities to destinations and populations all over the world.”
The undersigned further encourage all states to refrain from facilitation or encouragement of the Houthis. There is no justification for these attacks, which affect many countries beyond the flags these ships sail under. We again call on the Houthis to release the Galaxy Leader crew and ship immediately and to cease additional attacks on commercial vessels in the region’s vital waterways.