Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
The United States has warned of a potential ecological disaster in the Red Sea following a Houthi rebel attack on the oil tanker transiting the region.
🇮🇷 allies destroy oil tanker carrying crude for 🇮🇷 ally 🇷🇺
— South East Military Veterans (@EastVeterans) August 24, 2024
The Houthis destroyed MT Sounion and the crew were rescued by an EU Naval Vessel. Apparently, they had refused a Naval escort past Yemen
Why?The owners are Delta Tankers LTD granted the title of "War Sponsors" by 🇺🇦
1/ pic.twitter.com/tynxgST2u0
Let’s bring you up to speed: Last week, Yemen’s Houthi rebels attacked the Greek-flagged oil tanker MT Delta Sounion in the Red Sea. The tanker was loaded with roughly 150,000 metric tons of crude oil. The crew had to abandon the ship and was rescued by a French naval vessel.
What the US is saying: In a statement, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said, “The Security Council must condemn Houthi attacks on the oil tanker MT Delta Sounion.” She added, “The Houthis’ brazen actions threaten to create an ecological disaster with devastating consequences for the region.” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller also chimed in, saying, “The United States is gravely concerned by the Houthis’ attacks against the oil tanker.” He continued, “Through these attacks, the Houthis have made clear they are willing to destroy the fishing industry and regional ecosystems that Yemenis and other communities in the region rely on for their livelihoods, just as they have undermined the delivery of vital humanitarian aid to the region through their reckless attacks. We call on the Houthis to cease these actions immediately and urge other nations to step forward to help avert this environmental disaster.”
Why did the Houthis target the ship?: The Houthis released a prerecorded message from their spokesman, Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, which claimed responsibility for the attack. They claimed to have used a “new ballistic missile” and said, “God is the greatest; death to America; death to Israel; curse the Jews; victory to Islam.” They did not offer further details on why the ship was targeted. However, the Houthis have previously targeted ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden to disrupt maritime traffic in protest against what they call “the ongoing genocide in Gaza.” Since the war in Gaza began in October, the Houthis have targeted over 80 vessels with missiles and drones.
Who was on the ship: According to various reports, the vessel had a crew of 25 Filipinos & an undisclosed number of Russians aboard.
