Greek Oil Tanker Attacked in Red Sea Amid Rising Tensions and Shipping Threats

A Greek-flagged oil tanker, the Sounion, was attacked in the Red Sea on Wednesday, resulting in a fire and loss of power, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations and the Greek Shipping Ministry. The vessel was targeted by two small boats and hit by projectiles, causing a fire and disabling its engine and maneuverability. Despite a brief exchange of small arms fire during the incident, the 25 crew members – two Russians and the rest Filipinos – escaped injury.

The ship’s operator, Delta Tankers, confirmed that the Sounion sustained minor damage and was adrift but expected to be able to continue sailing under its own power. Another ship reported two explosions in the water near Aden, but the crew was safe and the vessel was continuing to its next port of call. These attacks in the Red Sea are believed to be linked to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, with Iran-aligned Houthi fighters carrying out assaults on international shipping in the region since last November.

In response to the attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, the US and UK have conducted retaliatory strikes on Houthi territories, causing disruptions to world trade. Shipowners have been forced to divert their vessels away from the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, opting for the longer route around the southern tip of Africa to avoid the dangers posed by the ongoing conflict in the region. The situation remains tense as international shipping continues to be threatened by these targeted attacks.

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