The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has called on Yemen’s Houthis to halt attacks on all commercial ships in the Red Sea, to de-escalate threats to shipping and release seafarers who continue to be held hostage.
On Sunday, the Houthis declared they would suspend attacks on non-Israeli vessels following the new Gaza ceasefire—while maintaining threats to Israeli-owned or -flagged ships until all phases of the ceasefire agreement are implemented.
The group also announced a conditional lifting of ‘sanctions’ against ships linked to Israel, the United States, and Britain, depending on how the ceasefire progresses.
This announcement followed hundreds of Houthi missile and drone attacks on ships transiting the Red Sea, the sinking of two vessels, killing at least four seafarers, and destabilising one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.
“For too long, seafarers operating in these waters have been forced to endure unacceptable risks,” said Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary.
Despite the announcement, the ITF said it remains deeply concerned that the Houthis continue to detain the crew of the Galaxy Leader, seized on 19 November 2023 – the ITF calls for their immediate, unconditional release.
“The wellbeing of the seafarer hostages must remain a priority amid these evolving developments,” said David Heindel, ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair and President of the Seafarers International Union (SIU). “We urge the Houthi leadership to take immediate steps toward the release of all captive seafarers—this is an urgent and essential matter.”
Industry warned: ‘Do not risk more lives’
Despite the Houthi statements, many in the industry warn that the Red Sea trade route remains “too risky” for the foreseeable future. The ITF urges shipping companies and charterers to divert vessels away from the danger zone until seafarers’ security can be assured.
“The ITF remains committed to collaborating with governments, industry stakeholders, and all relevant parties to achieve a lasting solution,” said Heindel. “However, until clear and verifiable assurances are in place to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Red Sea, we urge the industry to prioritise the safety of seafarers above all else. Their wellbeing should never be compromised for commercial considerations.”
Renewed call for permanent peace and stability
Earlier today, the ITF welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, stressing the need for full compliance from both parties, immediate humanitarian relief for Gaza, and the release of all hostages.
The region’s fragile security cannot withstand more broken promises—this pivotal moment should pave the way for long-term stability and protection of civilians, including transport workers, throughout the broader region.
“The missile attack on the True Confidence is perhaps the most sobering reminder that promises alone do not protect lives. We need a permanent de-escalation to be confirmed now.
“We call on the Houthis to immediately end all hostilities, to release all crews currently being held captive and provide concrete guarantees that no other seafarer will suffer the same fate. Until that happens, shipping companies and charterers must take every possible step to avoid putting seafarers’ lives at risk in this region.”
