A dramatic maritime rescue unfolded off the coast of Yemen as 23 Indian crew members were saved following an explosion and subsequent fire aboard the Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker MV Falcon. The incident occurred on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 7:00 AM UTC, approximately 113 nautical miles southeast of Aden. The vessel, en route from Oman’s Sohar Port to Djibouti, was carrying a full load of liquefied petroleum gas when the explosion took place, causing the ship to drift and ignite a fire that engulfed 15% of the vessel. Early reports indicate the explosion was accidental, though investigations are ongoing. The EU Naval Force Operation Aspides swiftly launched a search-and-rescue mission after radio communications revealed the crew was preparing to abandon ship. Of the 24 crew members who initially evacuated, 23 were successfully rescued, while two remain missing, and one was still onboard the tanker at the time of the last update. Due to the risk of further explosions, nearby vessels were advised to maintain a safe distance. A private company has since taken over the salvage operation. This incident highlights the ongoing dangers in the Red Sea corridor, where Yemen’s Houthi rebels have been targeting commercial ships in solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Gaza conflict. Operation Aspides, a defensive maritime mission, continues to safeguard civilian ships and crews navigating these perilous waters.