Naval operations for the European Union have reported significant developments regarding the Greek-flagged oil tanker Sounion, which has been engulfed in flames and adrift in the Red Sea following multiple attacks by Houthi rebels.
The vessel, carrying 150 000 tons of crude oil, poses a severe navigational and environmental hazard, raising concerns of a potential catastrophic spill.
The Sounion was attacked last Wednesday, August 21, approximately 77 nautical miles west of Hodeidah, Yemen.
Initial assaults involved gunfire from small boats, followed by several projectiles that ignited a fire onboard and left the ship without propulsion.
As of August 24, the Sounion remains anchored but continues to be a source of concern due to the ongoing fire and the risk of an oil spill.
The EU's Operation Aspides has warned that the situation is precarious, urging all vessels in the vicinity to exercise extreme caution.
The tanker was en route from Iraq to Greece when it was attacked, and the potential for an oil spill could mark this incident as one of the worst tanker spills of the 21st century if not managed properly.
Yemen’s Houthi militia, which have not officially claimed responsibility for the Sounion attack, have been engaged in a campaign against commercial vessels in the Red Sea, asserting that their actions are out of retaliation against Israel’s ongoing war against the anti-Zionist movement of Hamas in Gaza.
The incident is part of a broader pattern, with reports indicating that over 80 vessels have been targeted since the escalation of hostilities in October 2023.
The situation surrounding the Sounion remains fluid, with ongoing monitoring by naval forces and environmental agencies.
The potential for a significant ecological disaster looms large if the fire is not contained and the vessel is not secured promptly.
The international community is continuing to watch closely as developments unfold in this critical maritime region.
