The anticipated salvage operation for the stranded MV Sounion has been postponed, according to the private companies overseeing the effort.
On 2nd September, the European Union’s mission in the Red Sea, Aspides, announced that the salvage operation for the oil tanker MV Sounion, which was targeted by Houthis was set to commence. However, after thorough evaluation, the salvage companies determined that current conditions were not safe enough to proceed with the towing operation.
As informed, alternative solutions are now being explored to address the situation without compromising safety.
The MV SOUNION, due to the large amount of crude oil it carries, presents a significant environmental threat. Private companies are involved in the salvage operation that is about to start. Upon their request, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES will provide protection to the tug boats, that will… pic.twitter.com/V1XtJPlEeD
— EUNAVFOR ASPIDES (@EUNAVFORASPIDES) September 2, 2024
The Houthis attacked the tanker on August 21 near the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah , the Sounion, which is a 274m-long and 50m-wide “Suezmax” tanker, was carrying crude oil from the Iraqi port of Basra when it was attacked.
Due to the large amount of crude oil it carries, presents a significant environmental threat.
