The Greek-flagged oil tanker Sounion, which was attacked in the Red Sea, now poses a significant environmental hazard. The vessel, carrying 150,000 tonnes of crude oil, was evacuated by its crew following the attack, according to the EU’s Red Sea naval mission, Aspides.
Attack Details and Immediate Response
The Sounion was targeted on Wednesday by multiple projectiles near Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah. This area has seen increased attacks by Iran-aligned Houthis, who are reportedly targeting ships in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The attack caused a fire onboard, which was extinguished by the crew, and led to a loss of engine power.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the vessel is currently anchored between Yemen and Eritrea. Delta Tankers, the company operating the Sounion, is working on relocating the vessel to a safer location for further inspection and repairs.
Environmental and Navigational Concerns
With the tanker holding a large quantity of crude oil, the vessel now represents a significant environmental risk. Aspides highlighted the threat posed by the Sounion on social media, noting the potential for oil spills and other environmental damage.
The EU naval mission responded to the captain’s request and sent a ship to rescue the crew, transporting them to Djibouti. Additionally, an Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) that posed a threat to the Sounion and its crew was destroyed by the EUNAVFOR ASPIDES ship during the rescue operation.
Broader Impact and Ongoing Threats
The attack on the Sounion is part of a troubling pattern of maritime violence in the Red Sea. The Houthis have been responsible for multiple incidents in the region, including the sinking of two vessels, the seizure of another, and several attacks that have disrupted global trade by forcing ships to avoid the Suez Canal.
In a related incident on Thursday, another vessel reported minor damage after an explosion near it, caused by an encounter with an uncrewed vessel south of Yemen’s port of Aden. The vessel and crew were reported to be safe and continued their journey.
International Reaction
Greek Shipping Minister Christos Stylianidis condemned the attack on the Sounion as a severe violation of international law and a serious threat to global shipping safety. The incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by maritime operations in volatile regions and highlights the need for enhanced security measures and international cooperation.
As investigations continue, efforts to address the environmental and navigational risks posed by the Sounion remain a priority for authorities and maritime organizations.
