Greece Deploys Rescue vessel to the Red Sea to Counter Houthi Attacks and Protect Maritime Shipping

Yemen Monitor – Newsroom:

Greece has announced the deployment of an advanced rescue vessel to the Red Sea to help protect ships and sailors following a surge in Houthi attacks targeting Greek vessels earlier this month. The move comes after two Greek-operated cargo ships flying the Liberian flag sank off the coast of Yemen due to repeated attacks by the Iran-backed armed group.

According to Reuters, Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs Vassilis Kikilias stated that the vessel, named Giant and provided by the Greek Tugboat Owners Association, will support and assist Greek ships and crews in the region. He noted that the vessel is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a specialized crew of 14 sailors.

The minister emphasized that the massive ship is powered by four engines with a combined 16,000 horsepower and is capable of navigating in extreme weather conditions. It is also equipped for search and rescue missions, firefighting, marine pollution prevention, and offers accommodations for up to 40 people.

The deployment of the vessel comes amidst ongoing Houthi attacks, which have targeted over 100 ships between November 2023 and December 2024. The Houthis have stated these attacks are a response to the war in Gaza and in solidarity with Palestinians. Recent attacks resulted in the sinking of the vessels “Magic Seas” and “Eternity C.” All crew members of the “Magic Seas” were rescued by a passing vessel, while the “Eternity C” crew was forced to abandon ship. Ten of its crew members were rescued in a special operation, while five others are feared dead, and ten more are reportedly held by the Houthis.

Maritime security sources noted that the EU naval mission “Aspides” was not present in the area at the time of the incidents, further highlighting the strategic importance of the newly deployed Greek vessel in strengthening maritime security and safeguarding vital shipping lanes in the Red Sea.