America: The Houthis’ seizure of the cargo ship is a flagrant violation of international law

(CNN) – US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said on Monday that his country demands the “immediate release” of the cargo ship and its crew that were kidnapped by the Houthis in the Red Sea.

Miller added, in a press conference: “The Houthis’ seizure of the Galaxy Leader ship in the Red Sea is a flagrant violation of international law,” and he continued that the United States “will consult with allies and partners regarding the next steps.”

The Houthis hijacked the cargo ship in the Red Sea on Sunday, with about 25 crew members on board.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said Monday that the ship is operated by Japanese shipping and logistics company NYK (Nippon Yusen Kaisha).

Japan is currently working with Israel and has asked Saudi Arabia, Oman and Iran to urge the Houthis to release the ship and its crew as soon as possible.

Matsuno said that his country “will take the necessary measures in cooperation with the countries concerned, taking into account the development of the situation.”