Rome Prepares Naval Mission in Red Sea to Bolster Shipping Security

Italy announced on Thursday that it is preparing its own naval mission in the Red Sea to protect commercial shipping, amidst growing concerns regarding the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto affirmed that Rome cannot await the European Union's response to the crisis, telling Reuters on Friday: "After what I said, something moved in Aspides, but we need more ships." This move follows rapid advancements made by the Houthis on Yemen's Red Sea coast, which has complicated shipping routes in a region that also includes the Strait of Hormuz. Italy participates in the European naval operation "Aspides," launched in 2024 to protect vessels from Houthi attacks. Crosetto stressed that "the only two countries that are effectively supporting (security efforts) are Italy and Greece," refusing to specify the number of ships required. Approximately 7% of global oil production passes through Bab al-Mandeb, while 40% of Italy's trade traverses the Suez Canal, according to data from Kpler and Assarmatori, respectively. Crosetto had indicated on Thursday that Rome opted to deploy its forces to avoid obstruction by what he called "European bureaucracy," warning that any delay could exacerbate the situation. Authorities have not disclosed details of the measures or naval assets it might send.