Dutch Vessel Targeted in Gulf of Aden Attack
Houthi rebels have officially claimed responsibility for Monday's attack on the Dutch-flagged cargo vessel MV Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden. The ship, which was en route from Djibouti, sustained significant damage in what the Houthis described as a cruise missile strike.
Casualties and Evacuation
Two crew members were injured in the attack, with one requiring medical evacuation to Djibouti for treatment. The remaining 17 crew members were safely evacuated by helicopter to nearby vessels. According to Dutch authorities, no Dutch nationals were among the crew.
Ongoing Maritime Crisis
This incident represents the latest in a series of attacks by Houthi forces on international shipping in the Red Sea region. The rebels have repeatedly targeted commercial vessels, claiming their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
"We know they are carrying out unacceptable attacks on maritime shipping and we will monitor this closely," stated outgoing Dutch Foreign Minister Van Weel shortly after the attack.
Current Situation
The MV Minervagracht remains adrift in the Gulf of Aden with what the vessel's owner describes as "significant damage." Specialists and authorities are currently discussing how to secure the vessel safely. The attack occurred in one of the world's most critical shipping lanes, through which approximately 12% of global trade passes.
The Houthi movement, officially known as Ansar Allah, has controlled significant portions of Yemen since 2014 and has been engaged in a prolonged civil war. Their recent maritime attacks have significantly disrupted international shipping routes, forcing many vessels to take longer alternative routes around Africa.