French Destroyer Rescues 29 Mariners from Houthi Attack in Red Sea

A French destroyer rescued 29 mariners from the oil tanker Sounion, targeted by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. The assault is part of the Houthis' ongoing campaign affecting global trade routes. Although the blaze on the Sounion was extinguished, it now poses an environmental hazard with 150,000 tons of crude oil aboard.

A French destroyer successfully rescued 29 mariners from an oil tanker attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. Officials revealed the French vessel also neutralized a bomb-laden drone boat in the vicinity. This incident marks the most severe attack in recent weeks amid heightened tensions due to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

The oil tanker, Sounion, is currently anchored but remains a potential environmental threat given its 150,000 tons of crude oil. The European Union's Operation Aspides has urged caution in the area. The escape involved 25 Filipino and Russian crew members, along with four private security personnel, now safely in Djibouti.

In a separate announcement, Houthi spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed responsibility for the attack. Meanwhile, US forces conducted airstrikes in Hodeida, targeting Houthi missile systems. The escalating conflict has disrupted major trade routes and drawn international military involvement.

(With inputs from agencies.)