The US Department of Defense said that the oil tanker that was attacked by the Houthis in Yemen in the Red Sea last week is still burning and may be leaking oil.
The Pentagon added that the Houthis thwarted attempts to rescue the Greek-owned and Greek-flagged ship “MV Sounion” and threatened further attacks.
The ship is carrying more than 150,000 tons – or 1 million barrels – of crude oil, and has had a major spill. The potential to be among the largest ships in recorded history.
The Iran-backed Houthis, who control most of Yemen, say they have been attacking ships in the Red Sea for 10 months in support of the Palestinians in the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
They reportedly sank two ships and killed at least two crew members during that period.
They claimed – often falsely – that they only targeted ships linked to Israel, the United States or the United Kingdom.
The Sounians He was first fired upon by two small boats last Wednesday.She was then hit by three unidentified projectiles, starting a fire and leaving her without engine power, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said.
The next day, her 25 crew members were rescued by a European warship and taken to Djibouti.
The oil tanker was later attacked again, and the Houthis released a video showing what they say is them setting it on fire.
US State Department statement on Saturday She expressed concern about the attacks on the Sunion, and warned of the possibility of an oil spill four times the size of the ship. Exxon Valdez disaster 1989which released 257,000 barrels off the coast of Alaska.
Pentagon spokesman Major General Patrick Ryder said Tuesday that two tugs had been sent to rescue the stricken ship, but the Houthis had threatened to attack them as well.
He added that the United States is working with its partners in the region to try to mitigate any potential environmental impact.
“Internet practitioner. Social media maven. Certified zombieaholic. Lifelong communicator.”