The EU proposes its own mission in the Red Sea in the face of Houthi attacks, as Spain demanded

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New EU Naval Mission Proposed in Response to Red Sea Attacks

The European Union has proposed the creation of a new naval mission in the Red Sea in response to the increase in attacks by the Yemeni Houthi militias, with the support of Iran. The proposal comes at a critical time, as the rebels have expressed their intention to continue their campaign until Israel stops its offensive against Hamas in Gaza, according to El País.

The mission would be independent of the United States‘ Guardian of Prosperity operation but would cooperate with it through the exchange of sensitive and classified information. The new international deployment under the European flag, designed by the EU External Action Service (EEAS), would consist of at least three anti-aircraft destroyers or frigates with multi-mission capabilities with an approximate annual budget of 5.1 million euros.

Spain, which currently participates in the Atalanta mission aimed at combating piracy near Somalia with the frigate F-82 Victoria, has refused to extend its role to patrol the region affected by Yemeni terrorists. Instead, it demanded the creation of an entirely new European operation. If approved at the Council of Foreign Ministers meeting on January 22, the new mission could begin operating in February.

The EEAS has warned of a significant reduction in maritime security in the Red Sea, escalating the situation to unprecedented levels following indiscriminate and targeted attacks on ships even loosely linked to Israel. The proposal for the new European mission would have a duration of one year and two variants are considered: one focused exclusively on the Red Sea and another with a broader scope that would include the waters of the Arabian Sea and the Strait and Gulf of Hormuz.

The EU expects the new mission to carry out constant analysis and monitoring tasks, as well as accompaniment to commercial ships that require protection, all in close coordination with allies and other military operations in the region, including Guardian of Prosperity and Atalanta. The initiative reflects the European commitment to international maritime security and stability at key points for global trade.