Thanks to a risky and large-scale operation, one of the largest oil spills in history was prevented after an attack on the Greek tanker MT Sounion in the Red Sea, reports "Reuters". According to the British maritime security company "Ambri" and Greek officials, the risk of an environmental disaster has been eliminated, reports News.bg.
On August 21, the 900-foot Greek-registered tanker, carrying 150,000 tons of crude oil, was hit by several missiles and drones, which caused fires on board and raised fears of a serious spill. The rescue was complicated by severe weather conditions and severe damage to the vessel.
In September, the ship was towed to safety 58 miles south of the Yemeni coast to a zone 150 miles north with the assistance of seven rescue ships, guarded by the European Union naval force "Aspides". The tanker's cargo was unloaded after complex operations near Suez.
Greek Shipping Minister Christos Stylianides said: "This is a great relief, especially given the risk of a major environmental disaster. The operation was extremely complex but successful."
More than 200 specialists and six companies, including Megatugs Salvage & Towage and Ambipar Response, were involved in the rescue process.
Greece has urged international actors, including the Houthis and Saudi Arabia, to facilitate the rescue efforts. The success of the operation contributed to strengthening bilateral relations between Greece and Saudi Arabia, and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited Riyadh for discussions related to regional stability.
The global effort highlights the critical role of international cooperation in preventing environmental disasters and strengthening geopolitical relations in the region.