On December 3, the Romanian military destroyed a Sea Baby drone in the Black Sea, posing a navigation risk. This incident underscores growing concerns over shipping safety amid the Ukraine conflict. The drone was located 36 nautical miles east of Constanta, reflecting the rising tensions affecting regional maritime operations.
A Russian-flagged tanker, MIDVOLGA-2, was reportedly attacked by a drone off Turkey’s coast, with no injuries to its crew. Ukraine denied involvement, raising suspicions of a staged event by Russia. Turkish President Erdoğan condemned the attacks on commercial vessels, emphasizing the need for navigational safety in the Black Sea.
President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia may target vessels from countries supporting Ukraine if attacks on its tanker fleet continue. Describing Ukrainian military actions as “piracy,” he mentioned potential countermeasures, including intensified strikes on relevant port facilities. Putin cautioned against retaliatory actions, though recent incidents have heightened tensions significantly.
A violent incident unfolded on a Panama-flagged tanker in Greece, where a 27-year-old Egyptian crew member stabbed the captain and two colleagues. The attack shocked the crew as the assailant used two knives. The suspect was apprehended, facing charges of dangerous bodily harm, while investigations continue into the circumstances.
A Filipino seafarer tragically lost his life during a Houthi attack on the freighter Minervagracht. Reports revealed he was unaware of his right to disembark before entering a dangerous zone. The Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers emphasized that maritime regulations protect seafarers from being sent into war zones without consent.
A Filipino crew member of the Dutch cargo ship Minervagracht died from injuries sustained in a Houthi missile attack in the Gulf of Aden. The attack occurred on September 29, resulting in significant damage and a fire, forcing the crew to abandon ship. Spliethoff has expressed condolences and continues to support the crew.
Ten Filipino seafarers, recently attacked by Houthi rebels in the Gulf of Aden, will receive support from the Department of Migrant Workers upon their arrival in Manila. DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac announced assistance in securing new employment, along with medical services and psychological counseling to aid their recovery.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated tensions in the region, impacting international shipping. A recent attack by Houthi rebels on the Dutch-flagged cargo ship Minervagracht highlights the growing threat posed by these Iranian-backed forces, raising concerns about maritime safety and potential disruptions in global trade routes.
A general cargo ship flying the Netherlands flag was attacked southeast of Yemen, about 120 nautical miles from Aden, according to British maritime security firm Ambrey. An unidentified projectile struck the vessel, igniting a fire onboard. The incident raises concerns about potential ties to Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi forces amid rising tensions.
On September 13, 2025, the sailing yacht Oceanview sank off Portugal after being struck by orcas. The yacht, owned by Nautic Squad, had five individuals aboard, all rescued before it went under. Nearby footage captured the dramatic collision, raising concerns about orca interactions with vessels in the region.
A merchant vessel narrowly escaped an attack off Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, an area usually safe for maritime traffic. This incident followed an Israeli airstrike on Houthi leaders, raising security concerns. The crew reported a loud bang but remained unharmed, while investigations into the incident are underway.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed the Department of Migrant Workers to assist families of Filipino seafarers affected by the MV Eternity C sinking, attacked by Houthi rebels. Of the 22 crew members, 21 are Filipinos. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac reiterated the President’s directive: “Take care of the families.”
A merchant ship off Yemen’s coast caught fire after being attacked by armed men in small boats, according to the UK’s maritime safety agency. The incident involved rocket-propelled grenades and small arms, escalating as armed security onboard returned fire. This aligns with Yemen’s intensified military operations amid the Gaza conflict.
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis, led by Abdulmalik al-Houthi, have threatened to launch attacks on Israel if it resumes its assault on Gaza. The group has previously targeted Israeli vessels in solidarity with Gaza’s Palestinians. Al-Houthi stated they are prepared to escalate against Israel if the situation in Gaza worsens.
Vessels in the Singapore Strait face increasing risks, with a crewmember recently stabbed in a violent encounter. Attempted robberies by armed groups are common, but a rise in violent incidents has raised concerns. ReCAAP reports a surge in attacks, urging heightened vigilance and enhanced security measures to protect crew and ships in the area.
