India has said it has reached out to Saudi Arabia in its efforts to try and secure the release of an Indian priest who was abducted in Yemen by suspected Islamic State (ISIS) operatives in March. In a video spread across social media over the weekend, Father Tom Uzhunnalil was seen pleading for help from Pope Francis and the Indian government.
Uzhunnalil, also known as Tommy George, also claimed that his nationality was the primary reason why he had not yet been rescued. The date the video was shot remains unknown but while its authenticity has not been independently verified, relatives have confirmed it was the captured priest,
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Uzhunnalil, from the Indian state of Kerala, was in Yemen working at a care home operated by the Missionaries of Charity in the port city of Aden when it was attacked by suspected ISIS militants March 4, killing 16 people. Yemen has been ravaged by a war between the government, supported by Saudi Arabia, and the rebel Houthis, allegedly backed by Iran. The conflict, which has raged since early last year, has so far cost the lives of more than 7,000 people.
Following the circulation of the video showing Uzhunnalil, India claimed that it was doing everything it can to secure his release.
"With regard to the safe release of Father Tom who was abducted some months ago, we have been in regular touch with countries in the region, especially Saudi Arabia as also the local Yemeni authorities,” external affairs ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup said. “Efforts continue in this regard."
