"The release of the Galaxy Leader crew is heartwarming news that puts an end to the arbitrary detention and separation that they and their families endured for more than a year. This is a step in the right direction, and I urge Ansar Allah to continue these positive steps on all fronts, including ending all maritime attacks.

These measures are critical in improving the space for mediation, which in the long-term will facilitate the resumption of the Yemeni political process that millions of Yemenis have been yearning for.

I would like to express my gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman for its determined and tireless efforts to advocate for the release of the Galaxy Leader crew. I also thank Oman for its steadfast support in advocating for the release of arbitrarily detained personnel of the UN, international organizations, and diplomatic missions."

Hans Grundberg, UN Special Envoy for Yemen, 22 January 2025