Houthi-Hit Oil Tanker Carrying 1,50,000 Tonnes Of Crude Poses Environmental Risk In Red Sea

The MV Sounion, a Greek-flagged oil tanker, has become an environmental concern after an attack by the Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

The oil tanker carrying 1,50,000 tonnes of crude oil was hit by gunfire and three Houthi-launched projectiles near Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah on August 21, 2024

The attack led to a fire onboard and loss of engine power, leaving the vessel adrift. The oil tanker is currently anchored between Yemen and Eritrea.

The EU’s Red Sea naval mission, Aspides, responded to the distress call and safely evacuated all 25 crew members. The vessel was subsequently transported to Djibouti for further inspection and repair.

Aspides stated that a threat from an Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) was intercepted and destroyed during the rescue operation.

Per the Greek shipping ministry, the MV Sounion was sailing from Iraq to Agioi Theodoroi in Greece with a crew of 23 Filipinos and 2 Russians.

The Iranian-backed Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack. According to Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree, the Sounion was targeted due to its association with Israeli interests, citing the ship’s alleged violation of a blockade against vessels bound for Israel.

The continuous Houthi attacks on international shipping are in retaliation for Israel’s actions in Gaza.

Additionally, the SW North Wind I, a Panama-flagged bulk carrier, reported an explosion nearby. It sustained minor damage after encountering an uncrewed vessel.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations verified both incidents and stated that the vessel and crew were safe.

Greece’s Shipping Minister, Christos Stylianidis, criticized the attack, describing it as a flagrant violation of international law and a serious threat to international shipping.

The Greek authorities and international observers have expressed concern over the environmental risks posed by the Sounion, which is still stranded with the hazardous cargo.

Since November 2023, the Houthi militant attacks in the Red Sea have disrupted global trade, forcing ships to reroute and avoid the Suez Canal.

Reference: Reuters, CNN

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