Indian Seafarers Released After Prolonged Detention in Yemen's Ras Isa Port

India has successfully facilitated the release of over 150 seafarers who were stuck at Yemen’s Ras Isa Port, as reported by the Directorate General of Shipping. All 11 vessels that were detained have now set sail, with the last one, MT GAZ GMS, departing on june 29th. The Directorate expressed satisfaction in a press release stating that these ships have finally left after completing their cargo discharge.

The troubles at Ras Isa began following an airstrike on April 17,2025,which caused important damage to port facilities and prompted a blockade enforced by Iranian-backed Houthis. Some vessels had been trapped there since December 2024 due to local authorities withholding departure clearances until all cargo was unloaded.

This triumphant release was made possible through persistent diplomatic efforts spearheaded by the Indian Embassy in Yemen and supported by Indian missions in london, Riyadh, and Washington D.C.Ras Isa Port has become a critical point of tension amid ongoing regional conflicts. In early May, Arsenio Dominguez from the UN International Maritime Organization voiced serious concerns regarding the safety of seafarers as reports emerged about vessels being held against their will despite having proper documentation. There were alarming incidents involving warning shots fired and armed personnel boarding ships.

The port’s situation worsened with U.S. strikes targeting fueling infrastructure there in April, leading to numerous casualties. Recently, Israel also conducted airstrikes on three Yemeni ports including Ras Isa as retaliation for Houthi attacks against its territory.

This announcement comes amidst renewed tensions in the Red Sea following an attack on Sunday involving the Liberian-flagged M/V Magic seas which reportedly sank as a result of hostilities. Additionally, Israel claims it successfully targeted another vessel known as M/V Galaxy Leader that had been under Houthi control since November 2023.

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