International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez expressed profound sorrow over the death of a seafarer injured in the Houthi forces’ attack on the MV Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden on September 29, 2025. The Dutch-flagged vessel, owned by Spliethoff, was struck by a missile, leading to the tragic loss.
Dominguez condemned such acts of aggression against commercial shipping, labeling them as violations of international law and a threat to maritime safety. “I strongly condemn any attack on international shipping,” he stated, emphasizing the impact on innocent seafarers and coastal communities. He reiterated that peaceful dialogue is essential for resolving the geopolitical tensions that jeopardize maritime workers and global trade.
Following the attack, naval forces under EU Navfor ASPIDES rescued the remaining crew members. One injured seafarer is receiving medical care in Djibouti but is in stable condition and expected to be repatriated soon. Dominguez remains committed to ensuring the welfare of seafarers worldwide and urges adherence to international maritime law to safeguard lives at sea.
