Red Sea Ship Search Ends Amid Environmental Fears

Mariners Presumed Dead After Houthi Attacks

The hunt for missing crew from vessels sunk by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea has concluded. At least four mariners are presumed dead, with eleven still unaccounted for following coordinated assaults by the Iran-backed group.

Environmental Impact Grows as Oil Slicks Spread

Satellite imagery reveals extensive oil slicks trailing from the sunken bulk carriers Eternity C and Magic Seas in the southern Red Sea. The spills, emanating from the ships’ fuel tanks, raise significant concerns for the region’s sensitive marine ecosystems and wildlife reserves.

The slicks, estimated by analysts to stretch up to 80 kilometers (50 miles) and 65 kilometers (40 miles) respectively, could threaten areas as far away as Eritrea. Environmental organizations warn of potential damage to coral reefs and diverse marine life, crucial for tourism and scientific research.

Maritime Trade Disrupted by Ongoing Conflict

Both Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned vessels were targeted over a week ago as part of the Houthis’ broader campaign against shipping. These attacks are directly linked to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, significantly disrupting global trade routes. Approximately $1 trillion in goods typically transit the Red Sea annually.

Rescue Efforts Conclude with Hope for Survivors

The search for those lost from the Eternity C was managed by private security firms Ambrey and Diaplous Group. The vessel had been attacked on July 7th with small arms and drones, enduring hours of assault before sinking. The ship’s security team had not requested an escort from naval forces.

Ten individuals were successfully rescued, including eight Filipino crew members and two from the security detail. The EU’s Operation Aspides confirmed these rescues. The decision to cease the search was made reluctantly by the vessel’s owner, prioritizing the recovery and medical care of the survivors.

“The decision to end the search has been taken by the vessel’s Owner reluctantly but it believes that, in all the circumstances, the priority must now be to get the 10 souls safely recovered alive ashore and to provide them with the urgent medical support they need at this difficult time.”

—Private Security Firms, Ambrey and Diaplous Group

The Houthis have claimed to have captured some mariners, though no evidence has been provided. The U.S. Embassy in Yemen has stated its belief that the rebels “kidnapped” crew members.

Houthi Attacks Continue Amidst Fragile Truces

Since November 2023, the Houthis have targeted over 100 ships. The group’s actions have led to the sinking of four vessels and the deaths of at least eight mariners. Their attacks paused during a brief ceasefire but resumed following U.S. and allied airstrikes on Houthi targets.

The renewed assaults occur as prospects for a new ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war remain uncertain. The situation is further complicated by ongoing regional tensions and questions surrounding international nuclear talks. In a related development, global shipping costs have surged significantly due to the Red Sea disruptions, with the cost of shipping a container from Asia to Europe reportedly doubling since the attacks began.