Missile Strike on Cargo Ship Near Yemen Injures Two and Forces Crew to Evacuate
Missile Attack by Houthi Rebels Ignites Cargo Ship in the Gulf of Aden
Missile Strike Damages Dutch Cargo Ship
A missile launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels set a Dutch-flagged cargo ship, the Minervagracht, ablaze in the Gulf of Aden on Monday, according to officials. The attack injured two mariners and forced the crew to abandon the vessel. This incident marks the most severe attack in the Gulf of Aden, a strategic waterway connecting the Arabian Peninsula to the Red Sea.
Implications for Maritime Security in the Gulf of Aden
The assault comes amidst increased tension in the Middle East, as the Iranian-backed Houthis have previously sunk two ships in the Red Sea in July. While the rebels have not officially claimed responsibility for the Minervagracht strike, such actions align with their threats to target ships in reaction to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. The area is critical, as it facilitates the passage of goods amounting to approximately $1 trillion annually, pre-disruption by the war.
Emergency Response and Crew Evacuation
The Minervagracht has experienced previous threats, including an unsuccessful attack in the Gulf of Aden on September 23. On Monday, a missile was reportedly seen being launched from Yemen, striking the cargo vessel. The ship’s owner, Spliethoff, reported “substantial damage” to the vessel. A helicopter rescue operation swiftly evacuated 19 crew members from diverse nationalities, including individuals from the Philippines, Russia, Sri Lanka, and Ukraine. One member suffered severe injuries and was airlifted to Djibouti for urgent care.
International Naval Intervention and Investigation
- A European naval force, Operation Aspides, announced that the Minervagracht is currently “on fire and adrift” post-rescue.
- Military sources from the French Maritime Information, Cooperation, and Awareness Center attributed the attack to the Houthi rebels.
- Despite the serious nature of the attack, the Houthis have a history of delays in claiming responsibility for their assaults.
Wider Regional Tensions and Economic Impact
The incident adds to the ongoing regional instability and raises concerns over maritime security. The attack widens the Houthi strike zone, underscoring the rebels’ capacity for disrupting vital shipping routes. While the Minervagracht has no affiliations with Israel, the assault reflects the broader geopolitical conflicts affecting the region. In 2024 alone, there have been numerous attacks resulting in significant disruptions and casualties, reinforcing the imperative for global and regional efforts to address maritime safety in these waters.
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