EU: Several fires still burning on board Sunion, no signs of oil spill

The European Union's Red Sea mission (ASPEDS) confirmed on Monday that "several fires" were still burning on board the oil tanker Sunion after it was attacked by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

"Aspedes" said in a statement that the ship "Sunion", due to the large amount of crude oil it is carrying, poses a major environmental threat, noting that private companies are participating in the rescue operation that is about to begin.

The statement added that, at the request of the companies, the European Union mission will provide protection to the tug boats, which will handle the rescue operation and facilitate their efforts to prevent an environmental disaster.

"At present, several fires are still burning on the main deck of the ship, the ship remains anchored without drifting, and there are no visible signs of an oil leak," he explained.

On Sunday, Aspidis said in a blog post that it "has a defensive mandate and seeks to promote de-escalation of tensions in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden," warning that any pollution could affect all countries bordering the Red Sea.

“It has a clear focus on protecting the lives of seafarers and the world’s common property. Where possible, it also contributes to preventing pollution from ships damaged after attacks,” she added.

According to media sources, the British insurance company (BRIT) has hired the tugs Hercules and Gladiator to tow the stricken ship, but a press report stated on Thursday that “both tugs are subject to sanctions from the US Office of Foreign Assets Control, and the operation cannot begin unless an exemption is obtained.”

On 21 August, the Greek-flagged vessel, carrying 150,000 tonnes of crude oil, was attacked by the Houthis, causing a fire on board and loss of engine power, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations, prompting the EU mission in the region to evacuate its 25-strong crew.

Source: Yemen Youth Net + Agencies