On October 1, 2025, the Netherlands urged the EU to designate Yemen’s Houthi rebels as terrorists. This follows a Houthi missile strike on the Dutch cargo ship Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden on September 29.
Attack Details
The cruise missile hit injured two sailors. A helicopter evacuated 19 crew members from the Philippines, Russia, Sri Lanka, and Ukraine.
The ship, run by Amsterdam’s Spliethoff, caught fire and was heavily damaged.
Houthi Claims
The Houthis said they targeted the ship because its owner broke their ban on Israeli port visits. It was their second attempt on Minervagracht, after a missile missed on September 23.
Ongoing Threat
Since 2023, the Iran-backed Houthis have attacked over 100 ships in the Red Sea, citing support for Palestinians in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
They’ve sunk four vessels, with this being the worst Gulf of Aden attack since August 2024.
EU Sanctions Push
The Netherlands highlighted threats to safe navigation. An EU terrorist label would freeze Houthi assets and impose economic penalties, adding to the EU’s list of 13 individuals and 22 groups.
Shipping Safety
The U.S. Navy confirmed Minervagracht had no Israel ties. Spliethoff is coordinating with salvage teams. The attack raises concerns for global trade routes, as Houthi targets often lack clear Israeli links.
Why It Matters
The strike shows the Houthis’ growing threat beyond the Red Sea, endangering international shipping and prompting calls for tougher action.
What’s Next
In October 2025, the EU will review the sanction proposal. Shipping companies are boosting Gulf of Aden security to protect crews and cargo.
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