The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation Atalanta, known as "ASPIDES ," reported on Monday, August 26, 2024, that fires continue to burn aboard the Greek-flagged tanker "Sounion" following a Houthi attack on August 23rd. The Houthis are designated as a terrorist group by several countries.

In a statement released on X (seen by "Barran Press"), ASPIDES stated that the fires are concentrated around the ship's oil tank hatches. Additionally, a portion of the ship's upper structure is also engulfed in flames.

While there are currently no clear indications of an oil spill, ASPIDES has released images showing plumes of smoke and flames rising from the vessel's deck.

The "Sounion" remains anchored in its current location in international waters. ASPIDES emphasized that such attacks not only threaten freedom of navigation but also endanger the lives of sailors, the environment, and civilians living in the region.

Just days prior, ASPIDES issued a warning of an impending environmental disaster in the Red Sea after successfully evacuating the crew of the Greek tanker following a series of Houthi attacks. The vessel, located approximately 77 nautical miles west of Hodeidah, ran aground and suffered engine failure, although no crew members were injured.

The Houthis, who control the most populated areas of Yemen, claimed responsibility for the attack on the "Sounion" on Thursday. ASPIDES confirmed that fires were visible in at least five locations on the ship's deck, along with the burning upper structure.

ASPIDES , a European mission tasked with contributing to the protection of ships, successfully rescued the crew of the "Sounion" last Thursday after receiving a distress call from the captain.

Since November 2023, the Houthis, internationally recognized as a terrorist organization, have launched a series of attacks against commercial ships in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Aden, using missiles and drones.

These attacks have led to increased maritime insurance costs and prompted many international shipping companies to opt for the significantly longer route around the southern tip of Africa.

In response to the Houthi attacks, the US-led "Operation Sentinel" coalition, with significant British involvement, commenced airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen in January 2024. The Houthis, in turn, expanded their operations to target vessels linked to the US and UK.