Netherlands Urges EU Sanctions on Houthis

The Netherlands has called on the European Union to impose sanctions on Yemen’s Houthi militia following their claimed responsibility for an attack on the Dutch-flagged cargo vessel MV Minervagrach in the Gulf of Aden.

Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel said in a statement that the Houthis have posed a serious threat to freedom of navigation for a long time.

If approved, the EU decision could see the Houthis added to the bloc’s terrorism list, which currently includes 13 individuals and 22 organizations. Such a move would trigger financial sanctions, including the freezing of assets.

The EU naval mission in the Red Sea, Aspides, and shipping company Spliethoff confirmed that two crew members were injured in the attack, forcing the evacuation of all 19 sailors by helicopter.

Amsterdam-based operator Spliethoff said the MV Minervagracht was sailing in international waters when it was struck, suffering heavy damage and a fire on board.