On the morning of September 2, Iranian-backed Houthi forces launched an aggressive attack on two crude oil tankers in the Southern Red Sea, intensifying concerns over regional security and environmental safety. The Panama-flagged, Greek-operated MV BLUE LAGOON I and the Saudi-flagged MV AMJAD were both struck by ballistic missiles and a one-way attack drone, causing significant damage to the vessels. Both tankers were carrying crude oil at the time, with the MV AMJAD transporting approximately two million barrels—nearly double the amount carried by the Greek-owned MV DELTA SOUNION, which the Houthis targeted on August 21.
Efforts are currently underway to salvage the MV DELTA SOUNION, which remains disabled and on fire in the Southern Red Sea, posing a severe risk of a major environmental disaster.
These latest acts of terrorism by the Houthis not only threaten global and regional commerce but also endanger the lives of civilian mariners and the maritime ecosystem. In response, U.S. Central Command has reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners and allies to safeguard commercial shipping and mitigate environmental damage in the face of such reckless actions.–News Desk