Netherlands Condemns Houthi Attack on Dutch Cargo Ship, 2 Injured, 19 Evacuated

ISTANBUL, Oct 1 (VoM): The Netherlands has strongly condemned a Houthi attack on a Dutch-flagged cargo ship in the Gulf of Aden that left two crew members injured and forced the evacuation of 19 others.

Caretaker Foreign Minister David van Weel confirmed on Wednesday that the vessel, Minervagracht, was targeted near Yemen earlier this week. The Houthis officially claimed responsibility for the strike on Wednesday.

“The Netherlands strongly condemns the recent attack on the Dutch cargo ship Minervagracht,” van Weel said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter. “I will ensure that the Houthis are placed on the EU terrorism list and that the EU adopts additional sanctions.”

He stressed the importance of maintaining a robust maritime presence in the region alongside international partners. “This attack underscores the need for continued vigilance. The Netherlands is contributing directly to the EU’s Aspides mission. We are grateful to our European partners for their swift and decisive action in the search and rescue operation and the safe evacuation of the crew,” he added.

The French Foreign Ministry also condemned the attack, noting that France had been involved in the Aspides operation that secured the evacuation and provided medical care for the injured crew.

The attack highlights the ongoing risks faced by international shipping in waters off Yemen, where Houthi forces have repeatedly targeted commercial vessels amid heightened regional tensions.