Crisis in Red Sea: Towing Operations for Sounion Tanker Deemed Unsafe

Private companies salvaging the Sounion tanker, attacked by Yemen's Houthis, are seeking alternative solutions after declaring the towing operation unsafe. The EU's naval force Aspides is offering security for salvage teams. A spill could cause an environmental catastrophe, while complex conditions extend the operation timeline.

Private companies responsible for salvaging the Sounion tanker, which was attacked by Yemen's Houthis in the Red Sea, are exploring alternative solutions after deeming the towing operation unsafe, according to a statement from the European Union's naval mission on Tuesday.

The tanker, struck on August 21 and reportedly rigged with explosives, is laden with one million barrels of crude oil and remains on fire. The EU's naval force Aspides has pledged to provide security to the tugboats involved in the operation.

"The private companies have decided that conditions were not met for a safe towing operation," Aspides stated on X. "Alternate solutions are now under consideration." A spill could rank among the largest in history, potentially causing an environmental disaster. "Operations are ongoing and require further assessment given the complexity," a source told Reuters.

The Iran-aligned Houthis have agreed to allow salvage teams to tow the tanker. The crew has been evacuated, and Delta Tankers, the Greek operator, has declined further comment. Sources indicated a reassessment of the salvage plan due to high risks, with one calling it a "surgical operation" needing more resources.

Since November, the Houthis have launched over 70 attacks, sinking two vessels and killing three seafarers, in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)