In Greece, Proto Thema reports in a significant development, the Houthi rebels have agreed to a temporary ceasefire to allow the safe towage of the severely compromised MV Sounion, a Greek-owned oil tanker, to a secure port. The decision came after intense diplomatic efforts involving the European Union and Iranian officials, highlighting a rare moment of cooperation amid ongoing regional tensions.
Struck by gunfire and projectiles from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, the tanker, laden with approximately 1 million barrels of crude oil, is now a dual hazard: burning and leaking. Tuesday, the US Department of Defense stressed that there appears to be an oil leak from the vessel and an oil spill has formed.
The attack, which the Houthis claim was in solidarity with Palestinians, resulted in the vessel being left adrift, posing serious risks to maritime navigation and the marine environment.
European and Iranian diplomats, along with the United Nations, have been instrumental in negotiating this pause in hostilities. The ceasefire’s main goal is to prevent an oil spill that could have catastrophic ecological and economic impacts across the region. This agreement underscores the complex interplay of geopolitical interests and the pressing need for environmental protection in conflict zones.
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Tags: Greece, Houthi, oil tankers, Red Sea
Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
