Finance
A cargo ship named Galaxy Leader, traveling from Turkey to India, has reportedly been hijacked by Iran-backed Houthis rebels in the Red Sea, according to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). The ship, carrying vehicles from Korfez, Turkey to Pipavav in Gujarat, was seized by the rebels, prompting strong condemnation from Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office labeled it an act of Iranian terrorism, characterizing it as a significant escalation of Iran’s aggression against the free world.
The vessel, owned by a British company, operated by a Japanese firm, and registered under the flag of the Bahamas, is reported to be partly owned by Israeli businessman Rami Ungar. However, Israeli officials clarified that no Israelis are among the 25 crew members on board.
The Houthi rebels, who control a significant part of war-torn Yemen, had previously declared war against Israel. In response to the hijacking, a Houthi spokesperson announced intentions to target ships owned or operated by Israeli companies. The IDF emphasized that the seized ship was not Israeli.
This incident follows heightened tensions in the region, with recent confrontations involving the US Navy intercepting threats from Yemen. The international community, including the US, is closely monitoring the situation.
