India has welcomed the release of Anilkumar Raveendran, an Indian crew member who had been detained in Yemen since July 7, 2025. Raveendran, a former army personnel from Pathiyoor, was working as a security officer on the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MV Eternity C when it was attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. The attack led to the sinking of the ship and the detention of its crew members.

Raveendran reached Muscat, Oman, on Wednesday and is expected to return to India soon. The Government of India coordinated efforts with various parties to secure his release and expressed gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman for its assistance. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "Government of India welcomes the release of Indian crew member Mr Anilkumar Raveendran, who was on the ship MV Eternity C and under detention in Yemen since 07 July 2025."

The MV Eternity C was targeted as Houthi militants intensified attacks on international shipping amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. During the attack, four crew members were killed, while six others were rescued by the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) shortly after. However, Raveendran and ten other crew members remained in captivity until his recent release.

Throughout his detention, Raveendran managed to contact his family, assuring them of his safety, which provided them with some relief during a challenging time. His release marks the end of a nearly five-month ordeal for him and his family, as Indian authorities worked diligently through diplomatic channels to ensure his safe return home. Raveendran had joined the shipping company five years ago after serving 19 years in the Indian Army.