ASPIDES Warns of Environmental Disaster as Salvage Efforts for Houthi-Targeted Tanker Stall prompting the companies involved to explore alternative

The European Union Naval Force (ASPIDES) mission, has expressed concerns over the deteriorating condition of the Greek-flagged oil tanker "Sounion" after it was targeted by the Houthi group in August. The group, designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

In a statement released on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, EUNAVFOR stated that the salvage operation has been hampered by unfavorable conditions, prompting the companies involved to explore alternative solutions.

Since September 1, 2024, ASPIDES assets have been involved in protecting vessels participating in the salvage operation of the Sounion, aiming to prevent an unprecedented environmental disaster in the region," the statement read.

ASPIDES further noted that the private companies responsible for the salvage operation have deemed the circumstances unsuitable for towing the vessel and deemed it unsafe to proceed. They are currently exploring alternative solutions.

"The EU naval force remains focused on its primary mission, serving as a trusted provider of maritime security in the EU, contributing to the freedom of navigation for commercial vessels in its area of operations," the statement added.

The EU mission (ASPIDES ) had previously warned of a potential environmental catastrophe following the Houthi attacks on the tanker, which occurred approximately 77 nautical miles west of Hodeidah. The attacks resulted in the grounding of the vessel and the disabling of its engines, although the crew was successfully evacuated without injuries.

The Houthi group, which controls the most populous areas of Yemen, claimed responsibility for the attack on the Sounion on Thursday, stating that they had mined the tanker with explosives.

ASPIDES  has confirmed that fires were observed in at least five locations on the tanker's deck, along with a portion of the superstructure being engulfed in flames. The mission successfully rescued the crew of the Greek tanker last Thursday after receiving a distress call from the captain.

The Tanker (Sounion) carrying approximately one million barrels of crude oil, poses a significant environmental threat due to the damage sustained in the Houthi attack.

Since November 2023, the Houthi group has launched attacks using missiles and drones against commercial cargo ships in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.