Houthis to permit Sounion rescue operations

Yemen’s Houthi movement has temporarily stopped its attacks in the Red Sea to allow a tugboat to reach the Greek oil tanker Sounion, which has been burning since being hit by three missiles last week.

The decision comes amid conflicting reports about a ceasefire and environmental concerns.

Iran’s mission to the United Nations reported that the Houthis agreed to a temporary ceasefire to permit rescue operations for the Sounion. However, the Houthi spokesperson denied any formal agreement, stating they would not allow passage until contacted by international parties.

The Sounion, owned by Greek company Delta Tankers, was struck near Yemen’s port of Hodeidah on 21 August 2024 and caught fire two days later.

Although carrying nearly one million barrels of crude oil, the European Union mission in the Red Sea, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, yesterday confirmed no oil has leaked so far. Before that, also on Wednesday, the Pentagon said that the ship was leaking oil. Nonetheless, the tanker remains a significant pollution threat, and passing ships have been warned to proceed with caution.

The United States attempted to send tugboats to assist but withdrew them after Houthi threats. The situation reflects the broader conflict in the region, with the Houthis targeting ships they associate with Israel or its allies since the Gaza conflict began.