Houthi militia unloads fuel using primitive methods, causing oil spills near Ras Issa.

The local authority in Al Hudaydah province reported on Sunday that Houthi militias are engaging in extensive fuel discharge operations from tankers anchored in the Daqin Bay near the Ras Issa port. This activity raises significant environmental concerns in western Yemen.

Unsafe Practices Raise Environmental Alarm

In a statement released by its media office, the local authority highlighted that the militias are using makeshift floating tanks that lack basic environmental safety standards. They employ local boats to tow these oil tanks closer to shore, where they then transport the fuel via trucks into areas under their control. This operation occurs without any technical or international oversight.

Environmental Threats Emerge from Oil Spills

The statement further explained that the primitive discharge process from four tankers has already resulted in oil spills. These spills pose a serious threat to the marine ecosystem in the Red Sea, jeopardizing fish stocks and the livelihoods of local fishermen.

Urgent Call for International Intervention

In conclusion, the local authority warned that continued operations could lead to larger spills that would be difficult to contain. They urged international environmental organizations to intervene urgently and send independent technical teams to assess the situation. Immediate action is necessary to prevent a potential maritime disaster.

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