Netherlands' Call to Sanction Houthis: A Rising Maritime Threat

The Netherlands advocates for the EU to designate Yemen's Houthis as a terrorist group following an attack on the Dutch cargo ship Minervagracht. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, claim to target Israeli-linked vessels, posing threats to maritime navigation in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

The Netherlands has urged the European Union to officially designate Yemen's Houthi movement as a terrorist group. This appeal comes after the Houthis claimed responsibility for an attack on a Dutch-flagged cargo ship, Minervagracht, in the Gulf of Aden.

According to the Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel, the Houthis represent a persistent threat to maritime navigation, alleging that these attacks are conducted in solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts between Israel and Gaza.

The EU's potential decision could result in economic sanctions on the group, joining countries like the USA and Canada in labeling the Houthis as terrorists. Recent Houthi assaults have included targeting Israeli-associated vessels, with the attack on the Minervagracht injuring sailors and necessitating an evacuation.

(With inputs from agencies.)