Houthis Attack Greek-Flagged Oil Tanker, Risking Environmental Disaster in Red Sea

In a recent assault, Yemeni Houthi militants attacked a Greek-flagged oil tanker in the Red Sea, igniting three fires and prompting a significant environmental hazard. The crew was evacuated, but the vessel, carrying 150,000 metric tons of crude oil, remains adrift. Authorities fear a catastrophic spill may occur.

Three fires erupted on a Greek-flagged oil tanker in the Red Sea following an assault by Yemeni Houthi militants, said the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations on Friday. Rescuers had evacuated the crew a day earlier.

The Iran-aligned Houthis, who control most of Yemen, claimed responsibility for the attack, linking it to their support for Palestinians in the Gaza conflict. The assailants posted a video on social media purportedly showing the tanker being set on fire.

Carrying 150,000 metric tons of crude oil, the tanker poses a severe environmental hazard. The Djibouti Ports & Free Zones Authority warned of potential disastrous consequences for the region's marine environment. This attack marks the third Houthi strike on vessels operated by Delta Tankers this month.

(With inputs from agencies.)