The Council of the European Union had decided to extend the Red Sea protection effort known as Operation Aspides until February 28, 2027.<\/p>\n
The council said it had conducted a review of the operations and highlighted that the effort contributes to broader stability in the region.<\/p>\n
Aspides was launched in 2024, officially going active on February 19, in response to the attacks by the Houthis on merchant ships.<\/p>\n
The Council continues to emphasise that it provides \u201cdefensive maritime security\u201d to protect vessels and support stability along key maritime routes.<\/p>\n
By comparison, the US\u2019 effort was a proactive mission that struck Houthi sites that it believed were threatening shipping in the region.<\/p>\n
While there has not been an attack by the Houthis since September 2025, the militants have continued to issue threats to attack in the region.<\/p>\n
Recently, when Maersk reported that, along with Hapag-Lloyd, it would restore the first routes of the Gemini Cooperation to the Red Sea corridor, it stressed security and said the transits would proceed \u201csecured by naval assistance.\u201d<\/p>\n
Aspides\u2019 command recently highlighted that in the 23 months it has been operational, more than 1570 vessels have been supported.<\/p>\n
It operates with three naval vessels supplied by countries including Greece, Italy, and Spain, and says it continues regularly training and preparations to maintain operational readiness.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe extension follows a strategic review of Aspides and a broader assessment of EU maritime operations in the region,\u201d reports the Council.<\/p>\n
It said the operation contributes to \u201csafeguarding freedom of navigation in response to the ongoing threats against merchant and commercial vessels.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Council agreed on a financial amount of nearly $UK15 million ($F44.97m) to cover the common costs of the operation.<\/p>\n
The extended mandate and financial support run from March 1, 2026, to February 28, 2027, and follow a similar decision a year ago.<\/p>\n
Last year, the Council provided $UK17 million ($F50.97m) in financial support for the operation.<\/p>\n
The semi-submersible vessel was found at Arno Atoll in Marshall Islands. Picture: RNZ\/ ARTHMEN LAUKON<\/p>\n
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