Muscat, Oman – The Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced today the successful facilitation of the return of the crew of the vessel “Eternity Sea,” who had been held in Yemen. The crew, consisting of eleven individuals of Filipino and Indian nationalities, were safely transported from Sana’a to Muscat aboard a Royal Air Force of Oman aircraft, paving the way for their repatriation to their respective homelands.
The Ministry confirmed the development in a statement posted on its official social media account. This announcement follows months of diplomatic efforts led by Oman to secure the release of the sailors.
Reports indicate that the “Eternity Sea,” a Liberian-flagged vessel, sank in the Red Sea in July of last year. The crew members had been rescued following the sinking. The circumstances surrounding their subsequent detention remained unclear until today’s announcement.
The Houthi-affiliated Al-Masirah channel also reported the release, stating that it was achieved through Omani mediation. The channel released an image showing a group of individuals, seemingly of Asian descent, smiling.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs had previously indicated that they received assurances from Oman regarding the impending release of nine Filipino seafarers from the “Eternity Sea” who had been held by the Houthis in the Red Sea.
The “Eternity Sea” was reportedly attacked by Ansar Allah Houthi forces approximately 50 nautical miles southwest of the Yemeni port of Hodeidah in June. The attack resulted in the tragic deaths of two crew members. DZWatch continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
