The Netherlands on Wednesday condemned the Iran-aligned Houthi attack on the Netherlands-flagged general cargo vessel Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden on Monday, escalating already simmering regional tensions. The Netherlands minister of foreign affairs David van Weel called on the EU on Wednesday to place Yemen’s Houthis on the “EU terrorism list” and to adopt additional sanctions, after the group claimed responsibility on Tuesday for the attack on the general cargo ship Minervagracht.

In a televised statement, the Yemeni armed forces spokesperson Yahya Sare’e said the targeting operation took place in the Gulf of Aden with a cruise missile.

“The Netherlands strongly condemns the recent attack on the Dutch cargo vessel Minervagracht, which has now been claimed by the Houthis,” minister of foreign affairs David van Weel wrote on social media X.

He noted he will ensure that the Houthis are placed on the “EU terrorism list” and that the EU adopts additional sanctions.

“The Houthis have long posed a serious threat to freedom of navigation. This is unacceptable. I will work to ensure that the Houthis are placed on the EU terrorism list and that the EU adopts additional sanctions. By acting together, we can most effectively protect our ships, our trade routes, and international law.”

“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,” he further added.

The statement came after the Netherlands-flagged general cargo vessel was attacked in international waters of the Gulf of Aden.

Monday’s strike on the Minervagracht injured two seafarers of the 19 crew, who were evacuated to nearby vessels by helicopter.

Amsterdam-based shipowner Spliethoff said it continues to support the crew of the vessel while arrangements are being made for the repatriation of the crew to their country of origin where they will be reunited with their families.

The shipowner added Minervagracht was in international waters in the Gulf of Aden when it was hit, suffering significant damage and a fire.