The 25 crew members of the 'Galaxy Leader' is safe and sound and will soon return to Bulgaria, where the captain comes from, authorities in Sofia announced on Jan 30, 2024. According to the Transport Minister Georgy Gvozdeykov their return to Bulgaria is being organized, without giving further details.
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ST NIKOLAS
A merchant navy cadet from the 'St. Helena' was repatriated on Jan 19. The 19-year-old cadet returned to Greece via Dubai, accompanied by the Greek ambassador to Iran, Stylianos Gavril. The cadet's repatriation followed negotiations between Gavril, the Iranian foreign ministry, and the Greek foreign and shipping ministries. As for the remaining 18 tanker crew, all Filipino nationals, the vessel's owner, the Empire Navigation, stated that they continued to be detained ?on board the tanker, which was moored at Bandar Abbas. They were all in good health and in touch with their families. The company remained in contact with the Philippine ambassador in Iran, who was set to visit the vessel after completing prerequisite procedures imposed by the local authorities.
US GOVT VESSEL
After Houthi militants launched new attacks on Jan 24, 2024, at 2 p.m. on merchant shipping in the Gulf of Aden, just hours after the United States carried out preemptive strikes to stave off what it said was an imminent attack on shipping lanes in the Red Sea, the USS 'Gravely' shot down two anti-ship ballistic missiles aimed at the the 'Maersk Detroit', which was transiting the Gulf of Aden. A third missile fell into the sea. The attack did not cause any injuries or damage to the container ship. Hours before the latest attack, the U.S. launched preemptive strikes in Houthi-controlled Yemen, destroying two anti-ship missiles allegedly set to target international shipping in the Red Sea.
ST NIKOLAS
The Empire Navigation has not been in direct contact with the crew of the 'St Nikolas' since its seizure on Jan 11, and the satellite communications system remained disabled. The vessel continued to be anchored at Bandar Abbas. The company's primary concern and utmost priority have been, and will continue to be, the safety of the crew on board the vessel. In support of the families of the captured seafarers, the Empire Navigation established a mental health and psychological support service provided by specialized professionals on Jan 13. This support will be offered to the families until the seafarers have been safely released.
GALAXY LEADER
The two Mexicans who were on board the 'Galaxy Leader' were in good health and are receiving good treatment, reported the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico on Jan 22. The Mexican ambassador in Iran held a call with both Mexicans, who reported that they received adequate treatment, that they were in good health, and that the conditions on board the ship where they are being held were adequate. In addition, the honorary consul of Mexico in Sanaa, Yemen, visited the compatriots to verify their conditions and state of health. One of the Mexicans was identified by his family as Arturo Zacarías Meza.