Red Sea oil tanker encounters navigational difficulties following assault
For quite some time, there've been numerous assaults on merchant vessels in the Red Sea, largely blamed on the Houthis. Recently, a Greek oil tanker has fallen victim to these attacks. It's currently ablaze and out of control.
A blaze has erupted on a Greek oil carrier, reportedly attacked off the coast of Yemen. As per the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), "There's a fire on board and the ship has lost its engine power." The ship now drifts aimlessly and can't be steered, UKMTO further stated. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported yet.
Two small boats reportedly approached the oil tanker, about 77 nautical miles (142 kilometers) west of the Yemeni port city of Hodeida. One boat had around 3 to 5 individuals, while the other had approximately 10. A brief skirmish ensued using small arms fire, UKMTO detailed.
The oil tanker was identified as the "Sounion," under the Greek flag and operated by the Greek company Delta Tankers. It was en route from Iraq towards a port close to Athens, Greece's capital, carrying a crew of 25 members, 23 Filipinos, and 2 Russians, according to the port authority.
Houthis support Palestinians
Initially, no one took responsibility for the attack. However, the Houthi militia, responsible for numerous attacks in the area, is known for supporting this cause. The Iran-backed militia, linked with the radical Islamic Hamas in Gaza, argues that their actions are part of an effort to "stand with the Palestinians." As Israel and the radical Islamic Hamas engage in conflict within Gaza, the Houthis express solidarity with the Palestinians.
The Houthis' attacks have caused significant disruption to shipping in this strategically significant region, through which 12% of global maritime trade flows. In response, the US has established an international coalition to safeguard maritime transportation and US and UK military forces have targeted Houthi militia bases in Yemen.
The Houthi militia, known for their support of Palestinians, has been linked to numerous attacks in the Red Sea area. Previously blamed for assaults on merchant vessels, their actions are justified as standing in solidarity with the Palestinians during their conflict with Israel.
