European Union Launches Mission to Protect Red Sea Shipping from Houthi Attacks

Defense News ,Europe :- On Monday, the European Union started a naval mission to safeguard ships in the Red Sea from Yemen's Houthi rebels. These rebels, backed by Iran, have been causing trouble in the area, particularly targeting a US-owned cargo vessel. The EU's mission, named Aspides, meaning "shield" in Greek, is set to be operational in a few weeks with at least four vessels.

The Houthis, in control of much of war-torn Yemen, have been disrupting the vital shipping lane since November, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas conflict. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed support for the mission on social media, emphasizing the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and working with international partners.

The United States is already leading its naval coalition in the region, conducting retaliatory strikes against the Houthis, along with Britain. The frequent Houthi attacks have disrupted shipping in the Red Sea, prompting some companies to take alternative routes.

In the latest incident, a Greek-flagged, US-owned cargo ship faced two attacks within two hours in the Gulf of Aden. The attacks have raised concerns about the safety of commercial vessels in the region. The EU's mission, with participation from countries like France, Germany, Italy, and Belgium, aims to protect civilian shipping in the Red Sea.

Italy's top diplomat, Antonio Tajani, highlighted the mission's significance as a step towards common European defense during a meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels. The EU emphasizes that the mission's mandate is limited to protecting civilian shipping, with no plans for attacks on Yemeni soil. The mission's overall commander will be Greek, with Italian leadership in operational control at sea.

As concerns grow about the economic impact and potential inflation caused by Houthi attacks, the EU's 27 countries swiftly agreed to the Red Sea mission. The mission is initially set for one year, and there will be continuous coordination with the US and other regional forces to ensure the safety of shipping in the Red Sea.