Bangladesh has strongly condemned the Houthi militias’ hijacking of a UAE flag-bearing cargo ship called “Rawabi” off the coast of Al Hudayah Governorate engaged in medical equipment for a Saudi Field Hospital in the Island.  

This latest heinous attack obstructs humanitarian and relief work in the war- affected area of Yemen and is morally unjustifiable and shows utter lack of respect for international norms and values, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday.

Bangladesh is "concerned" that such "insensible and illegal acts" are being deliberately repeated and directed against the humanitarian and relief activities being conducted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its coalition partners.

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Bangladesh particularly condemned that the hijacking of the ship which is ill-motivated and illegal and constitutes a terrorist act and piracy against the ship and its crew.  

"This act is also a gross violation of international humanitarian law," MoFA said.

Bangladesh called upon the criminals who carried out this attack and hijacking to take urgent action to release the ship and evacuate from it.

Bangladesh in principle underscored the need to ensure safety and security of the international maritime laws along all maritime routes including the Southern Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden as well as the Arabian Sea.

READ: Bangladesh strongly condemns Houthi attack on Saudi Airport  

Bangladesh reiterated its firm solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its brotherly people against any threats to its security and stability.

Bangladesh also remains "steadfast" in its commitment towards the regional efforts for maintenance of peace and stability in the region.