Barran Press
The European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (Aspides) announced on Monday that the "MV SOUNION" tanker, which was attacked by Houthi forces in the Red Sea in August, has been successfully towed to a safe area without any oil spill.
In a statement on X (seen by Barran Press), Aspides stated that while private stakeholders continue salvage operations, the force will continue monitoring the situation.
"The completion of this phase of the salvage operation is the result of a comprehensive approach and close cooperation between all parties involved, who are committed to preventing an environmental disaster that could affect the entire region," the statement said.
Aspides further emphasized its commitment to contributing to freedom of navigation in the area of operations and protecting the lives of sailors and shared global assets.
On Sunday, September 15, Aspides announced the launch of the salvage operation, describing it as "complex and consisting of several stages, with the tanker being towed to a safe location."
On Saturday, September 14, a source in the Greek Ministry of Defense, speaking to France Press, confirmed the start of the towing operation for the "MV SOUNION" tanker, which was attacked by the Houthi group, designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, off the coast of Yemen in August. The incident posed a significant environmental threat.
Earlier this month, an attempt was made to salvage the "MV SOUNION," but Aspides stated that participating private companies deemed the operation "unsafe."
The tanker, carrying 150,000 tons of crude oil, caught fire and lost its propulsion after being attacked on August 21. Its crew of 25 was evacuated the following day by a French frigate from Operation Aspides.
Days after the attack, the Houthi group claimed responsibility for detonating explosives on the ship's deck, resulting in new fires.
On Friday, September 13, Aspides reported that fires were still burning on the ship as of September 12 but that there were no signs of oil leaking from the main storage tank.
For months, the Houthis, who control large parts of Yemen, have targeted ships they believe are linked to Israel, the United States, and the United Kingdom, justifying their actions as solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip during the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.