Barran Press
On December 11, 2024, the United States issued a warning regarding the "reckless" attacks by the Houthi group, classified as a terrorist organization, against commercial vessels in the Red and Arabian Seas. The U.S. emphasized the need to stop these actions "immediately."
In a statement released on X by the U.S. Embassy in Yemen, seen by Barran Press, it was noted that the Houthis endangered the livelihoods of millions along the Red Sea when they attacked the oil tanker "Sonyon." The embassy condemned the Houthi assaults, warning that such actions pose catastrophic environmental risks and severely threaten Yemen's economy and stability.
The statement highlighted that "individuals concerned about Yemen and the environment do not blow up oil tankers carrying a million barrels of oil," referencing a recent complex operation to safely transfer oil from the Greek tanker "Sonyon" to prevent environmental harm.
On August 21, the "Sonyon" tanker was attacked by the Houthis in the Red Sea, resulting in significant damage, power outages, and a fire onboard.
Since November, the Houthi group has escalated its attacks with missiles and drones against commercial shipping in the Red and Arabian Seas and the Gulf of Aden, leading to increased marine insurance costs and prompting many international shipping companies to opt for a much longer route around the southern tip of Africa.
In response to the Houthi threats, the "Prosperity Guardian" coalition, led by the United States and involving significant participation from the UK, began conducting airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen in January 2024. The group has since expanded its operations to include vessels associated with Washington and London.