A Houthi spokesperson stated that Yemeni forces will allow the rescue operations for the Sounion tanker, which they attacked on August 21, 2024, in the Red Sea, resulting in a fire that forced the crew to evacuate without any injuries. The ship, now adrift with visible flames on its deck, carries a serious risk of spilling its cargo of 150,000 tons of crude oil, potentially causing catastrophic environmental damage.
Lloyd's List reported on August 29 that Brit, the British insurance company holding the tanker’s policy, has already hired the two closest tugboats, Hercules (IMO: 9558517) and Gladiator (IMO: 7621011). However, they must wait for authorization from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control before proceeding with the operation.
Initial reports indicate that the Houthi attack on the Sounion occurred in two stages, as shown in videos released by the Yemeni group. The first attack took place while the vessel was sailing about 90 miles off the Yemeni port of Hodeidah. The ship was struck by three or four shells, igniting a fire that forced the crew to evacuate. The second attack occurred on the evening of August 23, likely involving a direct assault that triggered explosions on the ship, further fueling the flames.
