Houthis Allow Salvage Crew & Ships To Access Oil Tanker They Set on Fire in The Red Sea
Houthis Allow Rescue Ships to Access Damaged Oil Tanker in Red Sea
Houthis have permitted rescue ships and tugboats to reach the damaged oil tanker Sounion, which was attacked in the Red Sea last week. The Greek-flagged crude oil tanker, carrying 150,000 tonnes of crude oil, poses a significant environmental threat. Shipping officials have warned that if the oil leaks, it could result in one of the largest oil spills in history.
In response to global concerns, several nations appealed to the Houthis for a temporary truce to allow rescue operations and prevent a potential environmental disaster. The Houthis agreed to grant access to the tanker, citing humanitarian and environmental considerations.
According to Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam, while no official truce has been declared, the group has decided to allow the towing of the oil tanker following multiple requests from international organizations. The Sounion was struck by projectiles near Yemen’s Port City of Hodeidah, though it remains unconfirmed whether the ship is leaking oil. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for targeting ships in the Red Sea as part of their solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, having conducted over 70 attacks, sinking two ships, seizing another, and killing three seafarers.
