Sounion Continues to Burn Threatening Massive Oil Spill

The oil tanker Sounion, which was targeted by Houthi rebels last week, remains engulfed in flames. The U.S. Pentagon has reported that the tanker is now leaking oil, raising concerns about a potential environmental disaster that could result in the largest oil spill ever caused by a vessel.

The tanker, flying under the Greek flag and owned by Greek Delta Tankers, was carrying approximately 150,000 tonnes of crude oil when it was attacked and disabled on August 21. The incident occurred 77 nautical miles off the coast of Hodeidah, Yemen.

MarineTraffic data shows that the vessel’s last position was recorded on August 17, after departing from the port of Al Basrah on August 13.

Viktor Katona, Head of Oil Analysis at Kpler, noted, "Sounion could be the first crude oil tanker to be sunk by the Houthis and the third ship overall after previous attacks on Rubymar and Tutor, carrying fertilisers and coal, respectively."

According to the security firm Vanguard, the Sounion was approached by two small boats carrying about 15 individuals. These boats exchanged small arms fire with the tanker before retreating to a distance of approximately two miles.

The Sounion was then struck by two unidentified projectiles, followed shortly by a third at around 5:00am local time, as reported by the ship's captain. The crew detected smoke in the engine room after the attack. Delta Tankers confirmed that all 25 crew members, including 2 Russians and 23 Filipinos, are safe and unharmed.

The crew members were rescued by the EUNAVFOR Aspides ship and have since been transported to Djibouti. While the Houthis have not officially claimed responsibility for the attack, the incident’s similarity to previous attacks in the Red Sea points to their likely involvement.

Both the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and the Greek Shipping Ministry have highlighted that the attack occurred in an area notorious for Houthi activity, further suggesting Houthi involvement.