Greek Tanker Disabled After Attack Off Yemen Coast

A tanker belonging to Greek shipping company Delta Tankers has been attacked and left disabled approximately 77 nautical miles off the coast of Hodeidah, Yemen. This marks the third attack on a Delta Tankers vessel in the Red Sea within the past month.

Security firm Vanguard reports that the Greek tanker, named Sounion, was approached by two small boats carrying around 15 individuals. An exchange of small arms fire occurred between the two boats and the Sounion before the attackers withdrew to a distance of about two miles.

Following the initial exchange, the Sounion was struck by two unidentified projectiles, soon followed by a third, at approximately 5:00 AM local time, according to the vessel's captain. The crew later reported smoke in the engine room as a result of the attacks.

The ship is currently disabled and drifting at sea. However, Delta Tankers has assured that all 25 crew members, including 2 Russians and 23 Filipinos, are safe and unharmed. The company has indicated that the crew will assess the damage and attempt to continue their voyage.

Although the Houthis have not claimed responsibility, the nature of the attack bears similarities to previous incidents involving the group in the Red Sea.

Both the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and the Greek Shipping Ministry have noted that the attack occurred in an area frequently associated with Houthi activity, suggesting their possible involvement.