Salvagers halt operation to tow burning oil tanker in Red Sea

A recent attempt to tow away a burning oil tanker targeted by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea failed due to safety concerns, leaving the vessel, Sounion, and its 1 million barrels of oil at risk of spilling. The incident, involving the Iranian-backed rebels, poses a major threat to the crucial Red Sea trade route, disrupting goods worth $1 trillion annually.

Despite efforts to salvage the tanker, it remains ablaze, raising fears of a potential environmental catastrophe. The rebels’ campaign has already impacted aid shipments to Sudan and Yemen, highlighting the broader consequences of the conflict. The EU’s Operation Aspides mission is exploring alternative solutions as private companies reassess the situation.

The Houthis’ targeting of merchant vessels has escalated, with attacks on over 80 ships since the Gaza conflict began. The situation is complex, involving international military operations and geopolitical tensions. The U.S. military continues airstrikes against the rebels, underlining the ongoing security challenges in the region.