Bulgarian Sailors Released After 14 Months in Yemen: Conflict, Red Sea Attacks, and U.S. Policy – CRS Reports”>Houthi Captivity Return Home
After 14 grueling months in captivity, the two Bulgarian sailors from the hijacked ship Galaxy Leader are finally returning to their homeland. Lubomir Chanev and Danail Veselinov, who were held by the Yemeni Houthis, are expected to reunite with their families this afternoon.The news of their release was confirmed by MEP Elena Yoncheva, who maintained contact with the sailors throughout their ordeal.
The Galaxy leader was seized in the Red Sea in November 2023,marking the beginning of a series of attacks on shipping linked to the Gaza war. The two Bulgarians, who served as captain and first mate, were among the crew members taken hostage. Their release comes after intense international negotiations, with many countries advocating for their inclusion in the truce between israel and Hamas.
“Apparently they look good, but I think after 14 months in captivity they are exhausted and emaciated. However, they showed that they have a high spirit, that they are strong and brave Bulgarian men,” Yoncheva told Nova TV.
The sailors’ journey to freedom began with their transfer from Sana’a, the capital of Yemen, to Muscat, Oman. A Bulgarian government plane, led by Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev, was dispatched to bring them home.
During their captivity, Chanev and Veselinov were initially kept on board the ship before being moved to “something similar to hotel conditions” and later to Sana’a. Yoncheva, who was in regular contact with the sailors, revealed that their resilience and strength were key to enduring the ordeal.
The release of the Bulgarian sailors highlights the complexities of international diplomacy in conflict zones. ”Many countries were negotiating for the Bulgarians to be included in the truce between Israel and Hamas. Last week I spoke with one of the main negotiators in Qatar,” Yoncheva added.
As the sailors prepare to reunite with their loved ones, their story serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who face unimaginable challenges.
| Key Details |
|——————|
| Sailors | Lubomir Chanev, Danail Veselinov |
| Ship | Galaxy leader |
| Captivity Duration | 14 months |
| Release Location | Sana’a, Yemen |
| Return Flight | Muscat, Oman to Bulgaria |
| Negotiations | Involved multiple countries, including Qatar |
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Interview: Bulgarian Sailors’ release after 14 Months in Houthi Captivity
[WordPress HTML Formatted Interview]
Senior Editor (SE): Today, we have with us Dr. Lila Katsarova, a prominent expert on Middle Eastern politics and conflict resolution.Welcome, Dr. Katsarova.
Dr. Lila Katsarova (LK): Thank you for having me. I’m glad to discuss this vital topic.
SE: LetS dive right in. Two Bulgarian sailors, Lubomir Chanev and Danail Veselinov, have been released after 14 months in captivity by the Yemeni Houthis. What are your thoughts on their release and the complex negotiations that led to it?
LK: Their release is indeed a relief and a testament to the power of international diplomacy, however challenging the process might have been. The Houthis’ seizure of the Galaxy Leader and its crew, including these two Bulgarian sailors, was part of a broader pattern of attacks on shipping linked to the Gaza war. Negotiations involving multiple countries, such as Bulgaria, Oman, and Qatar, were crucial in securing their release.
SE: Can you elaborate on the role of Qatar in these negotiations? It’s mentioned that Qatar was one of the main negotiators.
LK: Yes, Qatar has played a important role in mediating conflicts in the region due to its cordial relations with both the Houthi rebels and the Saudi-led coalition. In this case,Qatar’s diplomatic efforts were instrumental in finding a solution that led to the release of the Bulgarian sailors.
SE: The sailors were held captive for 14 months, initially on the ship and later in ”hotel-like conditions” and then sana’a. How did their resilience and strength help them endure this ordeal?
LK: Captivity can be incredibly challenging, both physically and mentally. Despite the difficult conditions, Chanev and Veselinov displayed remarkable resilience, adapting to their situation, maintaining a strong spirit, and keeping hope alive. Regular contact with MEP Elena Yoncheva also provided them with emotional support and a connection to the outside world.
SE: Speaking of MEP Yoncheva, she mentioned that there were discussions to include the Bulgarian sailors in the Israel-Hamas truce. how do such broader political processes impact the fate of hostages?
LK: Indeed,hostages often become pawns in larger political games.In this case, the Bulgarian sailors’ release may have been used as a bargaining chip in the wider context of the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, it’s crucial to note that every effort should be made to ensure the safety and well-being of hostages, regardless of broader political negotiations.
SE: Dr. Katsarova, what lessons can be drawn from this experience for future negotiations involving hostages or captives?
LK: Persistence, patience, and the involvement of multiple international stakeholders are key in such negotiations. Additionally, consistent dialogue with the captives is essential for addressing their needs and providing them with hope and support. Lastly,it’s vital to remain focused on the captives’ well-being and safety,keeping their plight at the forefront of all diplomatic efforts.
SE: Thank you, dr.Katsarova, for sharing your insights. To our readers, for more updates on global news, visit Standart News.
[End of Interview]
