The International Transport Workers' Federation called on the Houthis in Yemen to stop all attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, calm threats to shipping and release sailors still being held hostage.

Stephen Cotton, Secretary General of the International Maritime Union, said: “For too long, seafarers working in these waters have been forced to take unacceptable risks.”

He said the missile attack on the warship True Trust was perhaps the most painful reminder that promises alone do not protect lives. We need to ensure permanent calm now.

He called on the Houthi group to immediately cease all hostilities, release all currently detained crews and provide concrete guarantees that no other sailors will suffer the same fate. Until this happens, shipping companies and charterers must take every step possible to avoid endangering the lives of seafarers in this area.”

He said that the International Maritime Union remains deeply concerned about the Houthis’ continued detention of the crew of the ship Galaxy Leader, which was seized on November 19, 2023 - and calls for their immediate and unconditional release.

David Hindle, Head of the Seafarers Section at the International Shipping Federation and President of the International Seafarers' Federation, said: “The safety of kidnapped seafarers must remain a priority in light of these rapid developments.

He urged the Houthi leadership to take immediate steps towards the release of all captured sailors - this is an urgent and necessary issue.”

Many in the industry warn that the Red Sea trade route remains “risky” for the foreseeable future. The International Shipping Association is urging shipping companies and charterers to divert ships away from the danger zone so that the safety of seafarers can be guaranteed.

Hendel said, “The ITF is committed to collaborating with governments, industry stakeholders and all relevant parties to reach a lasting solution. However, until clear and verifiable safeguards are in place to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Red Sea, we urge the industry We must prioritize the safety of seafarers above all else and their well-being should never be compromised for commercial reasons.”