Yemeni Armed Forces Release Footage of Greek-Flagged 'Sounion' Explosion in Red Sea for Violating Ban on Sailing to Israeli Ports

August 24, 2024 – Red Sea

In a dramatic escalation of maritime tensions in the Red Sea, the Yemeni Armed Forces have released footage showing the destruction of the Greek-flagged vessel 'Sounion'. The ship was reportedly targeted for violating a ban on sailing to Israeli ports, a prohibition recently enforced by the Yemeni government amid growing regional unrest.

BREAKING | Yemeni Armed Forces release scenes blowing up the Greek-flagged 'Sounion' in the Red Sea for violating the ban on sailing to Israeli ports. pic.twitter.com/afMGjOPHPz

— The Cradle (@TheCradleMedia) August 23, 2024

Incident Details

The 'Sounion,' a large commercial vessel, was reportedly en route to the Israeli port of Eilat when it was intercepted by forces aligned with the Yemeni military. According to sources within the Yemeni Armed Forces, the ship ignored repeated warnings to alter its course and was subsequently targeted by an explosive-laden drone.

In the video released by the Yemeni military, the ship is seen cruising through the calm waters of the Red Sea before being struck by what appears to be a drone. The explosion results in a massive plume of smoke and fire, causing significant damage to the vessel. The footage, which has quickly spread across social media platforms, shows the aftermath of the explosion, with the ship heavily listing and on fire.

Yemeni Government's Stance

In a statement accompanying the release of the video, a spokesperson for the Yemeni Armed Forces stated that the 'Sounion' was “legitimately targeted” for its involvement in what they described as “supporting the Zionist regime.” The spokesperson emphasized that the ban on sailing to Israeli ports is part of a broader strategy to pressure Israel and its allies in the ongoing conflict in the region.

"The destruction of the 'Sounion' sends a clear message that any vessel attempting to support the Zionist regime will be dealt with decisively," the statement read. The Yemeni government has claimed that the ban is a direct response to Israeli actions in the region, which they have characterized as aggressive and destabilizing.

International Reactions

The destruction of the 'Sounion' has sparked a wave of international condemnation. The Greek government has expressed outrage over the attack, calling it an “act of piracy” and demanding an immediate investigation. Greece’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs has confirmed that the 'Sounion' was a civilian vessel carrying non-military cargo and has called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address the situation.

Israel, too, has condemned the attack, with a spokesperson for the Israeli government labeling it “a blatant act of aggression that threatens the safety of international maritime routes.” Israeli officials have vowed to work with international partners to ensure the safety of vessels in the Red Sea and the broader region.

The United States and several European nations have also weighed in, expressing concern over the escalating violence in the Red Sea and the potential for broader conflict. The U.S. State Department issued a statement urging all parties to respect international maritime laws and calling for restraint to avoid further escalation.

Impact on Maritime Shipping

The attack on the 'Sounion' is likely to have significant implications for maritime shipping in the Red Sea, a critical waterway for global trade. Shipping companies are reportedly reviewing their routes in the wake of the incident, with some considering rerouting vessels to avoid the area entirely.

Insurance premiums for ships passing through the Red Sea are expected to rise sharply as a result of the attack, further complicating an already tense situation. Analysts warn that the destruction of the 'Sounion' could lead to a broader conflict in the region, with potentially devastating consequences for global trade and security.

The explosion of the 'Sounion' marks a dangerous escalation in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with the Red Sea emerging as a new flashpoint. As international reactions pour in, the world watches closely to see how this incident will impact the already volatile situation in the region. The Yemeni Armed Forces have made it clear that they are willing to take drastic measures to enforce their ban on shipping to Israeli ports, raising the stakes for all parties involved.