427 Days and counting
Unacceptable violation
On 19 November 2023, the Galaxy Leader was attacked and the crew has been held hostage ever since. Every 19th of the month, we reflect on this unacceptable violation of international law and call attention to these innocent people. They have been victims of a geopolitical struggle they had nothing to do with for 427 days now.
Even as a possible ceasefire agreement, between Israel and Hamas appears to be reached, it remains to be seen whether the attacks will then actually stop and the crew will be released. After all, as Annet Koster pointed out in an interview, the Houtis are making a lot of money’ from shipowners who would pay off safe passage.
Shipping must not become a geopolitical plaything and the mare liberum must be protected. Innocent crews like those of the Galaxy Leader should not bear the brunt of political tensions. And the crew of the Galaxy Leader? They have been held hostage for 427 days now. We do not forget them. The entire crew must be released immediately!
