A Houthi attack on Greek ship Eternity C has led to a tragic maritime disaster, leaving 15 crew members missing. Meanwhile, ten rescued sailors have safely arrived in Saudi Arabia after a desperate search operation.
The Iran-backed Houthi militants targeted the Liberia-flagged cargo ship last week. They used sea drones and rocket-propelled grenades in a two-day assault. Because of the Houthi attack, the vessel sank, putting 22 crew and three armed guards in grave danger.
Fortunately, eight crew members and two security guards survived the ordeal. Most of the rescued were Filipino, except for one Russian national. However, hopes faded for the remaining 15 individuals after the ship’s owner halted the private search mission following the attack.
Maritime risk firms Diaplous and Ambrey confirmed the difficult decision. They stated that the priority was ensuring the rescued survivors reached shore safely after the Houthi attack. Shortly after, the ship carrying the ten survivors docked in Jizan, Saudi Arabia.
Tragically, five crew members likely died before the ship went under. The Greece-based manager, Cosmoship, acknowledged the missing personnel. Additionally, the Houthis claimed they rescued some crew, but verification remains pending.
This Houthi attack on Greek ship follows another sinking weeks earlier. The Magic Seas, another Greek vessel, faced a similar fate, though its crew was saved by a passing ship thanks to quick action.
Notably, no international naval forces were present during the attacks. The EU’s Aspides mission, which patrols the Red Sea, had no ships nearby during the Houthi assault on the Greek ship. Since November 2023, Houthi rebels have targeted over 100 vessels, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
The Houthi attack on Greek ship highlights escalating risks in vital shipping lanes. With crews in peril and rescue efforts strained, global maritime security faces mounting challenges.
