Key Takeaways
- Cameroon-flagged tanker MV Falcon caught fire after explosion off Yemen coast
- Two crew members missing; 24 rescued by passing vessels
- Cause remains unclear – possible projectile attack or onboard accident
- Incident highlights ongoing maritime risks despite Gaza ceasefire
A Cameroon-flagged liquefied petroleum gas tanker caught fire near Yemen’s coast following an unexplained explosion, leaving two crew members missing and highlighting persistent dangers to shipping in the region.
The MV Falcon was sailing approximately 113 nautical miles southeast of Aden when the incident occurred. Approximately 15% of the vessel remains ablaze with risks of additional explosions.
Conflicting Reports on Explosion Cause
The UK Maritime Trade Operations initially received reports suggesting the tanker was struck by an unknown projectile. However, officials later stated they haven’t confirmed the explosion’s source and cannot rule out an onboard accident.
Maritime security firm Ambrey reported the tanker was traveling from Sohar, Oman to Djibouti and wasn’t considered aligned with Houthi targeting criteria. The company noted receiving a distress call after the explosion and was aware of crew intentions to abandon ship.
Rescue Operations and Crew Details
EUNAVFOR ASPIDES dispatched immediate rescue response teams. Twenty-four crew members have been recovered by passing vessels, while two remain unaccounted for. The crew consisted of 23 Indian nationals and one Ukrainian member.
Regional Context
Yemen’s Houthi militia has repeatedly attacked commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to pressure Israel regarding the Gaza conflict. The group previously suspended attacks during the March ceasefire but resumed operations when negotiations collapsed.
No group has claimed responsibility for Saturday’s incident. The MV Falcon was previously listed by United Against Nuclear Iran for sanctions-evading activities in 2022.
