The British Maritime Trade Operations authority announced that the Greek-flagged tanker “Sounion” was disabled in the Red Sea on Wednesday evening.
The vessel suffered a fire and lost its ability to sail following repeated attacks, according to Egyptian news sources.
Houthi rebels have been targeting international shipping near Yemen since November, in support of Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict. The group has not yet claimed responsibility for Wednesday’s attacks.
The Greek Ministry of Shipping and the British Maritime Trade Operations confirmed that the tanker was attacked by individuals in two small boats.
The vessel was hit by several projectiles approximately 77 nautical miles west of the Yemeni port of Hodeida. The crew briefly engaged in light arms fire.
Subsequent reports revealed another attack, which led to a fire on board and rendered the tanker immobile due to engine failure.
No injuries were reported among the 25 crew members, consisting of two Russians and the rest from the Philippines.
Delta Tankers, the operator of the “Sounion,” confirmed the ship’s disablement and minor damage. The crew is assessing the situation and plans to continue the journey.
The “Sounion” is the third vessel operated by Delta Tankers to be targeted by Houthi forces. Earlier this month, the rebels attacked two other tankers, “Delta Atlantica” and “Delta Blue,” both Liberian-flagged, in separate incidents.
The British Maritime Trade Operations also reported that the captain of another ship off the coast of Aden reported five explosions in nearby waters. This ship, “SW North Wind 1,” flying the Panamanian flag, did not suffer injuries or damage from the explosions.
Houthi attacks have caused significant disruptions to global shipping, prompting companies to reroute their vessels away from the Red Sea and around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope. The attacks have also led the US and UK to carry out retaliatory strikes on Houthi-controlled territories.
The attacks have resulted in the sinking of two ships and the death of three sailors. Experts suggest that such attacks will likely continue until a ceasefire agreement is reached in Gaza.
