Maritime security firms launched a mission on Wednesday to evacuate the crew of the Greek-operated Eternity C vessel hit by Houthi rebels off Yemen two days ago, sources close to the mission told Reuters.
Eternity C, with 22 crew members - 21 Filipinos and one Russian - on board, was attacked with sea drones and rocket-propelled grenades fired from manned speed boats on Monday, the second assault by Houthi rebels in a day after months of calm.
At least four crew members were killed and two were injured during the raid, maritime security sources have said, the first fatalities involving shipping in the Red Sea since June 2024.
The vessel's operator, Cosmoship Management, has not responded to requests for confirmation of casualties.
Lifeboats were destroyed during the attack, and the crew has not been able to safely abandon the vessel.
"It is an operation to rescue the crew, some of whom are injured and need assistance, and collect the bodies of the seafarers who lost their lives," said an official at maritime risk management firm Diaplous, which is involved in the project.
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"We aim at a peaceful operation," the official said, adding the mission was launched with British security firm Ambrey.
As they approached the vessel, part of the crew were in the water in life jackets, the official said.
Separately, Greek government officials have launched diplomatic talks with Saudi Arabia, a key player in the region, to help salvage the vessel, according to sources.