The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, has expressed deep condolences to the family of a seafarer who passed away a week after the MV Minervagracht was attacked in the Gulf of Aden.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a crew member of the MV Minervagracht, as a result of injuries sustained during an attack on the vessel in the Gulf of Aden on 29 September 2025,” Dominguez said. “My thoughts, along with those of the Secretariat and the entire IMO membership, are with the family of the crew member.”
The Houthi group claimed responsibility for the missile attack on the Dutch-flagged, Spielthoff-owned vessel. The 19 crew members on board were evacuated by EU Navfor ASPIDES naval forces. Another injured seafarer remains under medical care in Djibouti and is reported to be stable, with repatriation expected next week.
Dominguez reiterated his condemnation of attacks on commercial shipping. “I strongly condemn any type of attack against international shipping, regardless of its motivation or cause. These deplorable attacks in the Red Sea violate international law and freedom of navigation. Innocent seafarers and local populations are the main victims of these attacks and the pollution they cause.”
He emphasized that constructive dialogue remains essential for resolving ongoing geopolitical crises affecting seafarers and international shipping. In July, following attacks on the Magic Seas and Eternity C, Dominguez highlighted that he was actively engaging with several member states to help facilitate direct conversations with the Houthi.