On Thursday, September 1, a French warship rescued 29 sailors from the oil tanker 'Sounion,' which had been attacked multiple times in the Red Sea. The British Maritime Organization announced on Wednesday, August 31, that the 'Sounion' had been targeted several times in the Red Sea but continued its journey. However, the Associated Press reported on Thursday that the Sounion is now anchored in the Red Sea and is no longer moving. According to the Greek Ministry of Shipping and the British Maritime Trade Operations, on Wednesday, two small boats fired at this Greek-flagged oil tanker near the port city of Hodeidah in Yemen. The British Maritime Trade Operations stated in an update that the latest attack on the Sounion caused a fire on the tanker, resulting in its engine failing and its maneuverability being compromised. 'Delta Tankers,' the operating company of the vessel, confirmed the attack on the Sounion and stated that the crew is assessing the minor damages, but the tanker is continuing its route in the Red Sea. Houthi militants affiliated with the Islamic Republic have been attacking international vessels in the Red Sea and surrounding waters since last November, claiming to support Palestinians in the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. These attacks have prompted responses from the U.S. and the U.K., which have targeted Houthi-controlled areas multiple times. This crisis has impacted global maritime transport, with many cargo ships avoiding the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, opting for longer and more costly alternative routes.
French Warship Rescues 29 Sailors from Oil Tanker Attacked Multiple Times in the Red Sea
A French warship rescued 29 sailors from the Greek-flagged oil tanker Sounion, which had been attacked multiple times in the Red Sea by Houthi militants. The situation highlights ongoing maritime security issues in the region, affecting global shipping routes and prompting military responses from the U.S. and U.K.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
A French warship rescued 29 sailors from the Greek-flagged oil tanker Sounion after it was attacked multiple times in the Red Sea by Houthi militants. The attacks caused a fire and engine failure, forcing the tanker to anchor.
- The Sounion was attacked near Hodeidah, Yemen.
- Houthi militants have been targeting vessels in the Red Sea since last November.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The Houthis, backed by Iran, have been involved in a prolonged conflict in Yemen and have increasingly targeted international vessels to assert influence and disrupt trade.
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