The MV Sounion, a Greek-flagged oil tanker, became the center of a major incident in the Red Sea in late August. Here's a reconstruction of the events:
August 22nd:
- Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) rigged with explosives by the Houthi rebels is intercepted and destroyed by a French frigate participating in the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) operation ASPIDES near the MV Sounion.
- The tanker itself reportedly comes under attack with RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades).
August 23rd:
- Videos emerge showing the Houthis setting explosive charges on the deck of the MV Sounion.
- The crew is safely evacuated.
- Fires erupt on the tanker, raising concerns about a potential environmental disaster. Images shared online show the vessel ablaze with reports indicating fires on at least five locations on the main deck.
August 24th - 26th:
- The burning tanker continues to drift in the Red Sea, raising fears of an oil spill.
- The size of the vessel, carrying 150,000 tons, fuels concerns about environmental damage potentially exceeding that of the Exxon Valdez disaster.
August 28th:
- Reports indicate that Yemen has granted permission for the European coalition to tow the burning MV Sounion.
September 2nd:
- EUNAVFOR ASPIDES reports that a salvage operation for the MV Sounion is about to begin.
Fortunately, there have been no confirmed signs of an oil spill so far.
Current Situation (September 13th):
- The salvage operation of the MV Sounion is reportedly ongoing, with the aim of containing the damage and preventing an environmental catastrophe.
- The full impact of the attack and the success of the salvage efforts remain to be seen.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the Red Sea and the potential dangers commercial shipping faces in the region. The successful evacuation of the crew and the lack of a confirmed oil spill so far are positive developments, but the environmental risks remain a concern as the salvage operation continues.
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