Aden: The Yemeni government announced the initiation of an investigation into a marine pollution incident near the strategic port of Aden. This follows reports of a vessel allegedly discharging oil into Yemen's territorial waters.

According to Anadolu Agency, Transport Minister Mohsen al-Amri communicated via the US social media company X, stating that he has ordered the 'immediate deployment of a specialized investigation committee' to examine the pollution occurrence in the anchorage area outside Aden port. The minister highlighted that reports were received indicating a ship had released quantities of oil, though the vessel and its ownership remain unidentified.

Operational oversight by the port control tower along with coast guard forces led the General Authority for Maritime Affairs to expedite a field assessment. This evaluation aims to ascertain the magnitude and origin of the pollution and to document the incident comprehensively.

Al-Amri specified that if the vessel's involvement is verified, the coast guard has been directed to detain the ship and prevent its departure. Legal actions are slated against those accountable for the pollution.

The Port of Aden, a vital port under the control of the internationally recognized Yemeni government, has experienced a decline in activity due to the ongoing conflict in the region. Since April 2022, Yemen has seen a reduction in fighting between government forces and the Houthis, who have controlled Sanaa since September 2014, amid continued UN-led peace initiatives. The conflict has resulted in severe infrastructure damage and one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises.