1. Incident Overview

On 29 September 2025, a missile attack occurred near the Gulf of Aden, targeting the Dutch-flagged vessel Minervagracht, operated by Spliethoff.
According to reports, the vessel was hit by a cruise missile, which Yemen’s Houthi forces later claimed responsibility for.

2. Casualty and Crew Status

One crew member succumbed to injuries after being hospitalized, while another remains under treatment in Djibouti in stable condition.
The remaining crew members were safely evacuated and repatriated following the incident.

3. Responsibility & Context

Houthi forces stated that the attack was carried out in response to alleged violations of a ban on entry to “ports of occupied Palestine.”
At the time of the strike, the vessel was located approximately 128 nautical miles southeast of Aden.

4. Emergency Response & Operations

The EU Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation Aspides coordinated the emergency rescue operations, ensuring the safe evacuation of 19 crew members.
Reports confirm the Minervagracht sustained significant fire damage and was left adrift after the missile impact.