EU considers boosting Aspides naval mission

European Union foreign ministers will meet in Brussels to discuss strengthening the Aspides naval mission, launched in 2024 to protect shipping from attacks by Yemeni Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

However, according to diplomats, the EU is not expected to take an immediate decision on extending the operation to the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Traffic through the strait has been significantly restricted since late February after the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy arteries – roughly one fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass through it. European diplomats are therefore monitoring developments with growing concern.

According to available information, the EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas is trying to persuade member states to contribute additional ships to the mission.

Germany has expressed scepticism, arguing that the operation has not yet demonstrated significant effectiveness. Any extension of the mandate would also require approval from all 27 member states.

(Reuters, pir)