Official reports from maritime authorities or news agencies

Houthi Attack on Greek Tanker Sounion in Red Sea Sparks Oil Spill Fears

Aug 28, 2024, 08:54 AM

The Greek-flagged oil tanker Sounion, carrying 150,000 tons of crude oil, was attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, leading to a significant fire onboard. The Pentagon has reported that the tanker appears to be leaking oil, raising concerns about a potential environmental disaster, with the spill risk being four times the size of the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster. The attack occurred on August 21, and the vessel has been burning since August 23. Despite the Pentagon's warning, the European Union's naval mission, Operation Aspides, has stated that there is no oil spill in the area. The situation has led to increased insurance costs for ships navigating the Red Sea, as fears of a major oil spill persist.