Conflicting Reports on MV SOUNION Tanker Incident

The EU’s Aspides mission reported no oil spill from the MV SOUNION tanker off Yemen's coast, contrary to the Pentagon's statement of a fire and potential leak. Houthi militants claimed responsibility for the attack, aligning with Palestinians in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The European Union's mission in the Red Sea, known as Aspides, announced on Wednesday that there was no oil spill in the vicinity of the MV SOUNION tanker, which was recently targeted off Yemen's coast. According to Aspides, the Greek-flagged oil tanker remains anchored and is not drifting.

In contrast, the Pentagon reported on Tuesday that the tanker was still ablaze in the Red Sea and appeared to be leaking oil. Reuters has not been able to independently verify the occurrence of a spill or leak.

When asked about the Pentagon's statement, a source within the EU mission told Reuters: 'It is our policy not to comment on statements or comments from other organizations.' The MV SOUNION was attacked last week by multiple projectiles near Yemen's port city of Hodeidah. Houthi militants, who control the most populous regions in Yemen, claimed responsibility for the attack. The Iran-aligned group stated that their actions were in solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)