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Investigations are ongoing into the explosion that occurred on October 18 aboard the LPG tanker Falcon in the Gulf of Aden, as authorities dismiss speculation of an attack by Yemen’s Houthi movement. The Houthis themselves quickly issued an unusual public denial, asserting they were not involved in the incident.
Initial alerts from the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) indicated that a company security officer had reported the vessel was hit by an “unknown projectile.” However, UKMTO later clarified that it could not confirm the source of the report and that an onboard accident could not be ruled out. As of today, the organization said its investigation remains open but has downgraded the situation to an advisory status.
EUNAVFOR Aspides, which coordinated the search and rescue operations, has also classified the event as an accident. The naval task force has yet to issue further updates beyond promising to share new information when available.
The Falcon’s safety record has drawn attention, with its last two port state inspections revealing extensive maintenance issues. Turkish authorities detained the vessel in January due to a hole in its hull, corroded ventilation pipes, and several safety and welfare violations. Similarly, Indian inspectors in August 2023 identified 17 deficiencies related to safety, cargo handling, and corrosion.
According to the French Armed Forces, 24 crew members—one Ukrainian and 23 Indians—were rescued and transferred to another tanker, reportedly the MV Meda, believed to be part of Iran’s “shadow fleet” and possibly operating under a false flag. Other tracking sources identified the assisting vessel as Aira (IMO: 8818219). A Greek-owned bulker, AK Carl, also responded to the distress signal before resuming its course toward the Suez Canal.
The rescued crew is now en route to Djibouti, escorted by the Hellenic Navy frigate HS Spetsai. Two additional crew members remain missing. The French military, which deployed a search plane, released photos of both the damaged tanker and the rescue operation.
Shipping intelligence group TakerTrackers.com reported that the Falcon was likely part of Iran’s shadow fleet, transporting liquefied petroleum gas possibly destined for Yemen. The site also noted that the ship lacked insurance coverage but was not listed under any formal sanctions.
The incident comes shortly after the Houthis released a summary of their wartime operations, claiming to have launched over 1,800 missiles and drones, targeting Israel and 228 ships. Analysts remain uncertain about the group’s next moves amid fragile conditions in Gaza following renewed Israeli accusations against Hamas.
The last available reports indicate that the Falcon remains adrift in the Gulf of Aden. Authorities have advised nearby vessels to steer clear of the area and maintain heightened vigilance.
