A month later, seven Indians still hostage in Yemen

New Delhi, February 5

Over a month later, the fate of seven Indians who were part of the crew of a UAE-flagged ship kidnapped by Houthi rebels on January 2 still remains uncertain.

Despite Indian approaches, physical access to the crew has not been made available, including through the UN Mission in Hodeidah. All that the government has at the moment is that the captors allowed one of the Indian sailors to speak with his wife on January 28. The sailor reportedly told his wife that all the crew members are safe.

The government is in contact with the operator of the UAE-flagged ship Rwabee which is believed to be in the Houthi-held port of Hodeidah.

“The government of India is making all efforts to secure their early release. We urge the Houthis to ensure the safety and well-being of the crew members and release them immediately,” MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. “India is concerned at the recent intensification of fighting in Yemen and hopes that all parties will come to the negotiating table to find a peaceful resolution to the Yemen issue.”

The UAE government has demanded the return of the ship Rwabee and its crew, who were kidnapped by the Houthi militia, which is backed by Iran.