Operation Aspides: three NATO nations rescue a tanker off the coast of Yemen

Operation Aspides – On August 21, 2024, the Greek tanker MV Sounion, carrying 150,000 tons of crude oil, was violently attacked off the coast of Hodeidah, Yemen. Measuring 274 meters in length and with a capacity of 160,000 tons, the ship en route from Iraq was subjected to multiple assaults, resulting in a fire on board and a complete loss of propulsion. The crew was promptly evacuated to Djibouti thanks to the swift intervention of a French frigate.

Two days later, on August 23, Houthi forces exacerbated the situation by placing explosive charges on board the vessel, which remained anchored, burning in Yemeni waters. In response to this critical situation, the military operation Aspides was launched, mobilizing three NATO nations: France, Italy, and Greece.

France deployed the frigate Chevalier Paul, while Italy sent the destroyer Andrea Doria, and Greece, the frigate Psara. Thanks to this exemplary international cooperation, the tanker was secured and towed on September 16, 2024, thus averting a major environmental catastrophe in the Mediterranean.

This operation illustrates the effectiveness of coordination among NATO allies in protecting vital maritime routes, demonstrating their ability to address threats to global environmental security.