In a major feat, the United Nations (UN) has successfully drained an abandoned oil tanker that was dubbed a “floating time bomb” in the Red Sea. The vessel, known as FSO Safer, had been left adrift off the coast of Yemen since 2015, carrying over one million barrels of oil. With the ongoing conflict in Yemen, there were concerns that the deteriorating tanker could explode or rupture, resulting in a devastating oil spill. However, through a comprehensive effort led by the UN, an environmental and health disaster has been averted.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed relief and commended the international community for defusing the potential catastrophe. The UN conducted a fundraising campaign, raising $120 million, to secure the decaying tanker and acquire another vessel for transferring the recovered oil. The operation lasted 18 days, navigating a waterway known to contain naval mines.
The FSO Safer, built in 1976, held a larger oil capacity than the infamous Exxon Valdez, which caused an environmental catastrophe in 1989. It is currently stationed near Yemen’s Ras Isa oil terminal, which is under the control of the Houthi rebel movement. These rebels continue to engage in conflict with a Saudi-led coalition, leading to immense devastation within Yemen.
While the successful draining of the tanker is a significant achievement, the fate of the recovered oil presents its own challenges. The majority ownership of the oil lies with Yemen’s state firm, SEPOC. However, there is no consensus among the warring groups on how the profits from its sale should be allocated. This issue further complicates the resolution of the conflict.
The next step involves the arduous task of decontaminating and dismantling the FSO Safer. The UN development programme administrator, Achim Steiner, emphasized that the ideal outcome would be to sell the oil and remove it entirely from the region. This would not only secure the profits but also eliminate the risk of future environmental and health hazards.
The situation in Yemen remains dire, with the war inflicting significant suffering on its population, particularly women and children. International attention must not waver from the ongoing conflict and its devastating consequences. It is crucial for the international community to continue working towards a peaceful resolution while prioritizing the well-being of Yemen’s citizens.
The successful operation to drain the FSO Safer serves as a testament to the effectiveness of international cooperation in averting potential disasters. It highlights the importance of proactive measures to address environmental risks posed by abandoned and decaying vessels carrying hazardous cargo. The UN’s leadership in this endeavor sets a positive precedent for future crises of a similar nature.
Ultimately, the draining of the FSO Safer in the Red Sea marks a critical milestone in preventing an environmental catastrophe. It underscores the significance of collective action in addressing complex challenges and serves as a reminder of the urgent need for peace and stability in Yemen.
