The situation remains tense in the Red Sea around the Greek-owned oil tanker SOUNION, which has been hit by Houthi rebels. There is an ongoing effort by private company tugs to tow the vessel to a safer location, and, if possible, to a nearby port to prevent both its sinking and, more importantly, environmental pollution from potential fuel leaks.
The EU operation under Greek command, named ASPIDES, has taken on the task of safeguarding the tugs.
Since last night, company personnel responsible for the towing have boarded the ship to assess its condition and plan the towing attempt.
Unfortunately, as things stand, towing seems very difficult because it is not safe to proceed.
Authorities are currently considering alternative solutions.
The headquarters of the operation in Larissa issued the following statement: “As of September 1, 2024, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES assets have been committed to protecting the tugs participating in the MV SOUNION rescue operation, aiming to prevent an unprecedented environmental disaster in the area.
The private companies responsible for the rescue operation concluded that the conditions were not met to conduct the towing operation and that it was not safe to proceed. Alternative solutions are now being explored by the private companies.
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES remains focused on its original mandate, acting as a reliable EU maritime security provider with the aim of contributing to the freedom of navigation of commercial vessels in its area of operations.”
It should be noted that the warship group protecting the entire operation includes the frigate Psara of the Hellenic Navy.
According to the British maritime security agency UKMTO, two more ships, one of which is managed by a Greek shipping company, were hit on Monday in Houthi attacks off Yemen; no casualties were reported.
