Yemen’s Huthi Rebels Transform Seized Cargo Ship into Tourist Attraction
In a surprising move, Huthi rebels in Yemen have repurposed the Galaxy Leader cargo ship, which they captured over two months ago, into what they deem a domestic “tourist attraction.” The Iran-backed rebels, who have been engaged in a conflict with a US-led coalition, now allow male-only groups to board wooden boats for a nominal fee to visit the hijacked car carrier.
The vessel, decorated with Yemeni and Palestinian flags, has become a symbol of the rebels’ solidarity with Palestinians, particularly in the aftermath of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza that began on October 7. The Huthis claim responsibility for a series of missile and drone attacks on commercial ships, which they assert are linked to Israel.
Despite international efforts to secure the vital shipping lane, including a US-led naval coalition patrolling the Red Sea and targeted strikes on Huthi military sites, the rebels maintain their defiant stance. The Galaxy Leader now features anti-American and anti-Israel slogans alongside the national symbols.
Visitors on the sightseeing trips, undeterred by the ongoing conflict, express pride and honor in witnessing what they refer to as the “Israeli ship” off Hodeida on the Red Sea coast. Amidst chants and traditional dances glorifying the Huthis, there’s no mention of the fate of the 25 crew members, representing Bulgaria, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Mexico.
Owned by a British company with ties to an Israeli businessman, the Galaxy Leader was chartered by a Japanese company when it was seized on November 19 by the Huthis. The rebels justify their actions as an act of “solidarity” with Gaza.
As the Huthis continue their attacks against shipping routes, the Galaxy Leader remains a focal point for their supporters. The international community monitors the situation closely, with the fate of the detained crew members still unknown. The rebels, however, remain undeterred, with the ship now serving as both a symbol of pride for Yemenis and a unique tourist attraction in the midst of conflict.
Yemen‘s Huthi rebels open seized cargo ship to sightseers – Breitbart #news https://t.co/SDcQgRlZuq via @BreitbartNews
— Filtered News (@filterednews) January 29, 2024