Tanker Inferno: Environmental Crisis Looms in Red Sea

The Greek-flagged crude oil tanker Sounion has been burning in the Red Sea since Aug. 23 following an attack by Yemen's Houthis. Despite the major fire, no immediate oil spill has been detected. The vessel's 150,000 tonnes of crude oil could cause an environmental catastrophe if spilled.

The Greek-flagged crude oil tanker Sounion has been ablaze in the Red Sea since August 23, following an attack by Yemen's Houthis, according to the EU Red Sea naval mission Aspides. Despite the significant fire, there are currently no signs of an oil spill, a post on the social platform X indicated on Monday.

Photography released by the EU mission, dated Sunday, depicts fire and smoke emanating from the tanker's main deck. Reuters has confirmed the authenticity of a Houthi-released video showcasing the fiery assault on the vessel. The Sounion, carrying 150,000 tonnes of crude oil, poses a severe environmental threat, shipping officials have warned.

Lars Jensen, CEO of Vespucci Maritime, emphasized that the ship is transporting over one million barrels of oil. If a spill occurs, it could rank among the largest in maritime history. Jensen also highlighted the complication of deploying mitigation and cleanup vessels due to ongoing Houthi attacks.

The Houthis, sympathetic to Palestinians amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict, have intensified attacks on ships, disrupting global oceanic navigation and forcing a rethink on utilizing the Suez Canal. This month alone, the Sounion is the third vessel operated by Athens-based Delta Tankers targeted by Houthi forces for allegedly breaching their ban on entering the ports of occupied Palestine.

(With inputs from agencies.)