According to a statement by the SCA, the collision occurred as the LYRIC MAGNOLIA, with a capacity of 65,000 tons, was waiting on the hook in the Great Bitter Lake, while the ALIGOTE cargo ship, with a capacity of 44,000 tons, was preparing to move from the hook to waiting area W1 when increased wind speeds led to the collision.

Rabie added that the SCA's marine rescue team was immediately dispatched to inspect the ships.

The initial inspection revealed no significant damage or pollution to the surrounding environment.

 A detailed report on the technical condition of the ships is being prepared as part of a comprehensive examination, to allow the vessels’ journeys to resume through the canal in the early morning, subject to further announcements.

The LYRIC MAGNOLIA is an oil tanker that sails under the Bahamian flag and is en route to the port of Jizan in Saudi Arabia.

According to information on VesselFinder.com, the ALIGOTE is an oil tanker that sails under the flag of the Marshall Islands en route to Port Said.