OLVIA

General information

Course/Position

Latest news

Attack claim denied by owner

The Cyprus-based Island Oil, the holding company which owns the 'Olvia', denied the Houthi attack claim on July 16. The Houthis had made claims about targeting ships in the Mediterranean in the past, which had not been substantiated. This would involve much bigger capabilities to strike in that area directly or using longer range ballistic missiles with precision. Anthony Madella, director of the Cyprus’ shipping ministry, also said no incident occurred. Maritime security sources said no vessel had been hit in those waters by the Iran-backed militia.

More attacks of Houthi terrorists

On July 15, 2024, The Houthi terrorists claimed to have targeted three vessels, the 'Bentley I', carrying vegetable oil from Russia to China, 'Chios Lion' and 'Olvia' with booby-trapped boats, ballistic missiles and drones. The 'Bentley I and 'Chios Lion' were sailing in the Red Sea, the 'Olvia' in the Mediterranean Sea. The U.S. Central Command has confirmed the attacks on the 'Bentley I and 'Chios Lion'. The 'Bentley I' was attacked by three surface vessels, two small boats, and one unmanned surface vessel (USV). The vessel was again targeted by an anti-ship ballistic missile. The 'Chios Lion'' was attacked using an unmanned surface vessel and was damaged. No crew members were injured in the incidents.