(MENAFN) The Netherlands has voiced strong disapproval of a recent assault carried out by Houthi forces on a Dutch cargo vessel operating in the Gulf of Aden.

On Wednesday, caretaker Foreign Minister David van Weel expressed the country's position via the US-based platform X, stating, "The Netherlands strongly condemns the recent attack on the Dutch cargo ship Minervagracht, which has now been claimed by the Houthis."

Van Weel emphasized his commitment to pushing for the designation of the Houthis on the "EU terrorism list", and advocated for the introduction of further sanctions by the European Union.

He stressed that the incident highlights the critical need for a naval presence in the area in collaboration with allied nations.

He also reaffirmed the Netherlands’ active involvement in the EU's Aspides maritime security initiative.

"This attack underscores the importance of maintaining a maritime presence in the region together with our partners. In this way, the Netherlands is making a concrete contribution to the EU’s Aspides mission. We are grateful to our European partners for their swift and decisive action in the Search and Rescue operation and the safe evacuation of the crew of the Minervagracht," Van Weel added.

The remarks followed an assault on the Dutch-flagged cargo ship near Yemen on Monday, which resulted in two individuals sustaining injuries and the safe evacuation of 19 crew members.

The Houthis officially claimed responsibility for the attack on Wednesday.

French Foreign Ministry officials also denounced the incident, pointing out that the EU-led Aspides mission — in which France is a participant — offered assistance to the crew and medical aid to the wounded.

MENAFN02102025000045017167ID1110141887