Technical issues with the tugboats assigned to tow the “damaged” tanker Sounion from off the coast of Yemen have led to the postponement of the towing operation.

A spokesperson for the Aspides operation stated that larger tugboats would be needed to tow the tanker. The destination for unloading its cargo had not yet been finalized. The spokesperson commented that it would be “premature” to begin the operation until the technical issues were resolved.

Meanwhile, all parties continue to assess the situation to find another way to prevent what could be a catastrophic ecological disaster if the tanker’s cargo leaks. However, it remains unclear what these alternative solutions might be.

The ship was attacked on August 21st.

According to an update from the “Aspides” operation, frigates have been assisting since September 1st, providing protection to the tugboats near the MV Sounion to avoid a potential environmental disaster. The MV Sounion has caught fire and is anchored.