M/T Sounion Continues to Burn as Houthi Attacks Resume in Red Sea

The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) has released an update on the ongoing efforts to save the M/T Sounion, a Greek-flagged tanker carrying approximately 1 million barrels of crude oil, which was attacked by Iranian-backed Houthi militants in the Red Sea in August.

The tanker was initially attacked on August 21st by small boats, unknown airborne projectiles, and an unmanned surface vessel (USV), causing damage to its engine compartment. Later, Houthi militants rigged the vessel with explosives and detonated them, causing the fires on board.

With fires still raging, the tanker was eventually towed to a safe location approximately 81 kilometers off Eritrea’s coast, under the protection of the EU’s Operation Aspides, where a team of international experts began firefighting operations on September 23rd.

JMIC’s update confirmed that as of September 29th, some fires had been extinguished while others were under control. Satellite images from Wednesday, October 2nd, showed the Sounion with a distinct heat signature, confirming that fires on board were still burning.

The potential loss of the vessel poses a significant environmental threat, with experts warning it could lead to one of the largest tanker oil spills in history.

Despite a brief lull, Houthi attacks on merchant vessels have resumed. On Tuesday, two separate incidents were reported in the Southern Red Sea. The oil tanker Cordelia Moon was struck by a USV, resulting in damage to its ballast tank, while another vessel, identified as the M/V Minoan Courage, a bulk carrier, was hit by a missile. In both cases, the crews were unharmed and the ships continued their journeys.

Since November 2023, the Houthis have attacked over 100 vessels in solidarity with Palestinians in the Israel-Hamas war, sinking two ships and causing four civilian casualties. The JMIC warns that the group maintains the capability and intent to target vessels associated with the US, UK, or Israel, as well as U.S. Navy assets and coalition partners.

In response to the ongoing threat, the JMIC urges maritime industry stakeholders to implement robust security measures and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the free flow of commerce and maintain freedom of navigation in the region.

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