MANILA, Philippine: The Philippines has issued a strong warning to its mariners, urging them to avoid the Red Sea due to the escalating conflict and ongoing Houthi attacks on merchant shipping in the area.
The Philippine foreign ministry highlighted the severe risks posed by these attacks, which have increasingly targeted international vessels as part of the Houthis’ broader campaign in support of Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war.
The advisory follows a recent attack on the Greek-flagged oil tanker Sounion, which resulted in a fire and engine failure after being struck by multiple projectiles off the Yemeni port of Hodeida.
Among the crew were 23 Filipino and two Russian members, who were later rescued. This incident underscores the growing dangers for Filipino seafarers, who make up a significant portion of the global maritime workforce.
The foreign ministry has emphasized the importance of making prudent choices and exercising their “right to refuse sailing” in these perilous waters.
