Middle East Fatality
An Indonesian crew member remains missing after the MV Tihamah cargo ship was attacked off the coast of Yemen, while two other crew members from Indonesia survived, the Foreign Ministry has confirmed. The ministry announced the update on the incident in a press briefing on August 13 following coordination with the Indonesian Embassy in Muscat. The search and rescue mission to find the missing crew is still in progress, said Foreign Ministry citizen protection director Heni Hamidah. “We are in intensive communication with the Yemeni Foreign Ministry, and they will provide updates on the search for the missing crewman as soon as possible,” Heni said, while refuting previous reports suggesting that the missing Indonesian crew was among six fatalities in the incident. On Tuesday, the Tanzania-flagged cargo vessel was attacked and heavily damaged in the Bab el-Mandeb strait off the coast of Yemen, as confirmed by the country’s coast guard. Four crew members and two Yemeni rescuers were killed during the strikes, as reported by Reuters.
Secretary Rubio’s Independence Day Message
On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I extend my warmest congratulations on the 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s independence.
The United States and Indonesia enjoy an enduring partnership rooted in dedication to democratic governance and a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects the depth of our cooperation – from defense and regional security to fair and balanced trade, energy, and technology. The United States looks forward to creating new avenues of opportunity for our nations in priority areas such as critical minerals, maritime security, and the digital economy. We offer our heartfelt congratulations to you and the people of Indonesia as we continue our journey together toward shared prosperity.
We also extend deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones in the devastating earthquake and its aftermath in East Nusa Tenggara. Our thoughts are with those who were injured and all communities affected by this tragedy. (US Embassy)