A Greek-flagged oil tanker, the Sounion, has been damaged and is leaking oil in the Red Sea following an attack by Houthi rebels, according to a Pentagon spokesperson. The incident has sparked concerns over a “potential environmental catastrophe” in one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.
The Sounion was hit by multiple projectiles last week as part of a sustained campaign by the Iran-backed Houthi group, which has been targeting vessels along the Red Sea. This latest assault is part of a series of attacks that have heightened tensions in the region and raised alarms about the safety of international shipping lanes.
In a related incident, a photograph released by the French military shows the MV Tutor sinking in the Red Sea after being struck by a Houthi drone on June 12, 2024. The bulk carrier sank a few days later, reportedly causing the death of one crew member. This marks the second ship lost to Houthi attacks in recent months.
The Houthi rebels, who control significant areas of Yemen, have stated that their actions are a response to the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza, which has resulted in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction. The Israeli military initiated the offensive following Hamas-led attacks on October 7, which resulted in around 1,200 Israeli deaths and over 250 people abducted.
Recent images show intense flames engulfing the Sounion, which was carrying approximately one million barrels of crude oil, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder. The ship was en route from Iraq to Greece when it came under attack. All 23 Filipino crew members and two Russian sailors have since been evacuated safely.
The situation has underscored the escalating risks for shipping in the region and prompted urgent calls for increased security measures to safeguard vessels navigating through these contested waters.
