| Reported: 29 September 2025 | Location: Southeast of Aden, Yemen |
Report Details. On 29 September 2025 at 1022 UTC, the Dutch-flagged general cargo vessel MV MINERVAGRACHT came under attack approximately 128 nautical miles southeast of Aden, Yemen. The vessel sustained significant damage from an explosive strike, resulting in fire and loss of propulsion, and is currently adrift. A distress call from the Master triggered an immediate response by EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, which evacuated all 19 crew members (Russian, Ukrainian, Filipino, and Sri Lankan nationals), including two seriously injured. The vessel remains a navigational hazard in the Gulf of Aden.
Fig 1. Approximate location of the attack
Comment. This incident is the second attack on the MV MINERVAGRACHT in one week, making it unusual in that the same vessel was deliberately targeted twice. While the attack is widely suspected to have been carried out by Houthi forces operating from Yemen, the specific rationale for targeting remains unclear. The vessel has no known Israeli ownership or operational links, suggesting it may have been targeted as part of a broader campaign of indiscriminate attacks against international shipping. Prior to the recent targeting of the MV MINERVAGRACHT, the last major Houthi attacks on merchant shipping were reported in July 2025 in the Red Sea, when the bulk carrier Eternity C and the vessel Magic Seas were struck and later sank. This was followed by a period of reduced incident reporting until the renewed activity in late September.
Assessment. Additional incidents against commercial vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden and southern Red Sea cannot be ruled out in the short term. While the targeting rationale in this case remains unclear, recent activity indicates a continued risk environment in the region. Operators are advised to maintain vigilance when transiting the Gulf of Aden and Bab al-Mandeb, applying Best Management Practices (BMP5) including watchkeeping, ship hardening, and timely reporting. Contact Neptune P2P Group, if you require any further assistance.
