PRESS RELEASE : Seizure of MV Galaxy Leader by the Houthis: UK statement [November 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 21 November 2023.

The UK government has issued a statement condemning the unlawful seizure of MV Galaxy Leader by the Houthis in the Red Sea.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson said:

The United Kingdom condemns the unlawful seizure of MV Galaxy Leader by the Houthis in the Red Sea and we call for the immediate, and unconditional, release of the ship and its crew.

Iran has long provided military and political support to the Houthis. We have made it clear to Iran that it bears responsibility for the actions of its proxies and partners. Iran must actively restrain these groups to prevent the conflict escalating across the region.

The UK is committed to ensuring the safety of shipping in the region, including through our contribution to the International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC) and Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).