Attack on Dutch Cargo Ship in Gulf of Aden Raises Maritime Safety Concerns

On September 29, 2025, the Dutch-flagged cargo ship MV Minervagracht was attacked by an unidentified explosive device while transiting international waters approximately 128 nautical miles southeast of Aden, Yemen. The incident resulted in substantial damage to the vessel, which subsequently caught fire and began drifting. The ship's operator, Spliethoff, confirmed that the attack necessitated the evacuation of its 19 crew members, who are nationals from Russia, Ukraine, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. Two crew members sustained injuries, with one reported in stable condition and another seriously injured.

Yemen : Dutch-Flagged Cargo Ship Runs Aground After Attack in Gulf of Aden - Yemen OnlineGulf of Aden attack damages Dutch cargo ship, operator confirmsSpliethoff cargo ship on fire and adrift after another attack in Gulf of Aden; two injured ? WorldCargo NewsReutersDutch Cargo Ship Adrift and Ablaze After Attack in Gulf of Aden, EU Maritime Mission SaysDutch Cargo Ship ‘Minervagracth’ Attacked in Gulf of Aden, Vessel Adrift and On FireSeverely damaged Dutch vessel adrift and ablaze in Gulf of Aden after attack, crew evacuatedThe Maritime ExecutiveReutersTRT World

Following the distress call from the ship's master, the EU Naval Force Operation Aspides initiated a rescue operation. Helicopters were deployed to evacuate the crew to nearby vessels, including French and Greek naval ships. The injured crew members received medical attention, with the seriously wounded individual transported to Djibouti for further care. The Minervagracht, measuring 142 meters in length and carrying no cargo, now poses a navigational hazard in the Gulf of Aden.

Yemen : Dutch-Flagged Cargo Ship Runs Aground After Attack in Gulf of Aden - Yemen OnlineTRT WorldDutch vessel attacked in Gulf of AdenTimes of IsraelCargo vessel struck by missile in Gulf of Aden, crew injuredDutch Cargo Ship Adrift and Ablaze After Attack in Gulf of Aden, EU Maritime Mission SaysSpliethoff cargo ship on fire and adrift after another attack in Gulf of Aden; two injured ? WorldCargo NewsSeverely damaged Dutch vessel adrift and ablaze in Gulf of Aden after attack, crew evacuatedReutersGulf of Aden attack damages Dutch cargo ship, operator confirms

This attack marks the first confirmed engagement by Houthi rebels on a commercial vessel in the Gulf of Aden since September 1, 2025, when they targeted the Israeli-owned tanker Scarlet Ray. The Houthis have a history of targeting maritime shipping, particularly in response to perceived threats from Israel, and have previously attacked and sunk vessels in the Red Sea. The Minervagracht had been targeted just days prior, on September 23, indicating a pattern of aggression towards this specific ship.

Dutch vessel attacked in Gulf of AdenSpliethoff cargo ship on fire and adrift after another attack in Gulf of Aden; two injured ? WorldCargo NewsGerman Cargo Ship Struck by Missile in Gulf of AdenDutch Cargo Ship Adrift and Ablaze After Attack in Gulf of Aden, EU Maritime Mission SaysThe Maritime ExecutiveGulf of Aden attack damages Dutch cargo ship, operator confirmsReutersCargo vessel struck by missile in Gulf of Aden, crew injuredTimes of IsraelDutch general cargo ship hit by explosive device raises safety concerns in Gulf of Aden

Spliethoff expressed deep concern for the safety of the crew and confirmed that they are in contact with the next of kin of the injured seafarers. The EU Naval Force emphasized that such attacks threaten not only maritime navigation but also the lives of seafarers and regional citizens. They reiterated their commitment to safeguarding human life at sea and maintaining freedom of navigation.

Dutch Cargo Ship ‘Minervagracth’ Attacked in Gulf of Aden, Vessel Adrift and On Fire

While the Houthis have not officially claimed responsibility for this attack, maritime analysts and officials suspect their involvement, particularly given the recent escalation of their missile and drone attacks on commercial shipping linked to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The attack has raised alarms about maritime safety in the Gulf of Aden, with authorities urging vessels in the area to exercise heightened caution.

Spliethoff cargo ship on fire and adrift after another attack in Gulf of Aden; two injured ? WorldCargo News

There are discrepancies regarding the nature of the explosive device used in the attack, with some sources suggesting it may have been a missile. The exact details of the attack and the identity of the assailants remain under investigation, and the Houthis have not publicly acknowledged their involvement.

Spliethoff cargo ship on fire and adrift after another attack in Gulf of Aden; two injured ? WorldCargo News

As investigations continue, maritime authorities are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with international partners to enhance security measures in the Gulf of Aden. The incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by commercial shipping in the region, prompting calls for increased vigilance among maritime operators.

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