Amsterdam, 7 October 2025 — A crew member of the Dutch cargo vessel MV Minervagracht, attacked by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Gulf of Aden last week, has died from injuries sustained during the assault, the ship’s operator Spliethoff confirmed in a statement on Monday evening.
The Attack
The Amsterdam-based vessel was struck by an explosive device while sailing in international waters, causing a fire and significant structural damage. The attack left the ship adrift before it was later secured by international naval forces.
Casualties and Rescue
Nineteen crew members — of Russian, Ukrainian, Filipino, and Sri Lankan nationality — were on board at the time. Two were seriously injured and evacuated to Djibouti for medical treatment. Spliethoff confirmed that the deceased was a Filipino national, while the second injured crew member remains in hospital in stable condition and is expected to return home later this week.
Responsibility and Context
The Iran-aligned Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the strike, part of a series of attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since 2023. The group has targeted vessels it alleges are linked to Israel, citing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Wider Implications
The Dutch government has condemned the attack and urged the European Union to consider stronger measures against the Houthis, warning that such assaults pose a serious threat to international shipping and freedom of navigation.
The incident underscores the escalating risks to global trade routes through the Gulf of Aden, a strategic maritime corridor connecting the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea and Suez Canal.
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