Houthi Hit Greek Oil Tanker Sparks Environmental Concerns in Red Sea

The Greek-flagged crude oil tanker Sounion, which was recently attacked by Yemen’s Houthis, is currently on fire in the Red Sea and is now showing signs of leaking oil, according to a Pentagon spokesman. The attack occurred last week when the Sounion was targeted by multiple projectiles off Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah. The Houthis, who control Yemen’s most populous regions, claimed responsibility for the attack in solidarity with Palestinians amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The tanker, carrying approximately 1 million barrels of crude oil, has become a focal point of concern due to the potential environmental impact and risk to civilian mariners.

Pentagon spokesman Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder expressed condemnation for the Houthis’ actions, labeling them as “reckless acts of terrorism” that disrupt global and regional commerce and endanger innocent lives. He highlighted the ongoing efforts by the U.S. military and regional partners to assist the vessel and address any environmental consequences resulting from the attack. The Houthis have been engaged in a 10-month campaign targeting ships in the region, resulting in the sinking of two vessels and the loss of at least three crew members. Their actions have also disrupted global ocean shipping routes, prompting vessel owners to avoid the Suez Canal shortcut.

The attack on the Sounion marks the third incident involving a vessel operated by Athens-based Delta Tankers in the Red Sea this month. The crew managed to extinguish the fire onboard following the attack, as confirmed by Delta Tankers in a statement. The incident raises concerns about the potential for an oil spill, with historical data indicating the catastrophic impact of large-scale spills on the marine ecosystem. Efforts are underway to address the immediate challenges posed by the attack on the Sounion and prevent further escalation of the situation in the region.

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