In a bold move of maritime confrontation, Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi militants have claimed responsibility for an attack on the Dutch-flagged general cargo ship Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden 🌊.
The group's military spokesperson said they struck the vessel with a cruise missile on Monday, citing solidarity with Palestinians and accusing the ship's owner of violating an entry ban to the ports of occupied Palestine.
According to the EU maritime mission Aspides and the ship's Amsterdam-based operator Spliethoff, two sailors were injured and all 19 crew members were evacuated by helicopter 🚁 after a fire broke out onboard 🔥.
This incident marks the first Houthi attack on a commercial vessel since early September, following a series of assaults on ships they believe are linked to Israel. The group has targeted vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden to show support for Palestinians amid the conflict in Gaza 💥.
Quick recap of recent Houthi strikes:
- September 1: Attack on Israeli-owned tanker Scarlet Ray near Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.
- July: Sinking of bulk carrier Magic Seas and cargo ship Eternity C in the Red Sea.
- July: Strike on Singapore-flagged container ship Lobivia in the Gulf of Aden.
The attack on Minervagracht highlights growing risks for commercial shipping in one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors. Shipping companies, investors, and global markets are watching closely as tensions in the region continue to flare.
As this situation evolves, stakeholders in global shipping and security will be watching closely to see how these maritime tensions unfold ⛴️🔍.
Reference(s):
Yemen's Houthis claim responsibility for attack on Dutch-flagged ship
cgtn.com
