Sabotage and Crisis: The Troubled Journey of the Amjad

Amjad, a significant tanker loaded with two million barrels of crude oil, faced a harrowing attack by Houthi terrorists on September 2, 2024. The U.S. Central Command confirmed that the vessel was struck by missiles and an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) while en route from Ju'Aymah to Ain Sukhna, shedding light on the ongoing risks posed to maritime operations in the Red Sea. This incident underscores the vulnerability of vital shipping routes in a region fraught with geopolitical tensions and emerging conflicts.

Prior to this recent attack, Amjad was also implicated in another crisis earlier in May 2024. Following several sabotage actions, satellite imagery revealed potential fuel oil spills from the tanker as it appeared to leak bunker oil for four continuous days. The leak extended over an alarming area of approximately 37 square kilometers by May 16, raising concerns about the environmental impact and safety protocols in place for vessels operating in sensitive regions.

Additionally, the historical backdrop of Amjad's operational environment reflects a broader pattern of attacks on tankers in the region. On May 12, 2019, the vessel was among several that suffered extensive damage due to malicious activities identified as sabotage. Investigations hinted at the use of magnetic mines to breach the hulls of multiple ships, including the Norwegian tanker 'Andrea Victory' and the UAE-flagged 'A. Michel'. This pattern of aggression on maritime assets not only disrupts supply chains but also intensifies the urgency for enhanced security measures in the maritime industry.

With these incidents marking a precarious journey for Amjad, the implications for global oil supply, maritime safety protocols, and environmental stewardship remain a critical topic of discussion among stakeholders in the industry.