Criticism continues to pour in following the European Union’s decision to launch a naval force operation to "restore and safeguard freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Gulf (of Aden)," the EU Council has said.
Al Jazeera reported that the EU Naval Force Aspides will send European warships and airborne support to the affected area of the Bab al-Mandab Strait, linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
“The operation headquarters will be located in Larissa, Greece, and will work hand in hand with 'like-minded partners' already present in the region” – primarily US and UK naval and aerial forces.
EUNAVFOR Aspides will consist of the deployment of at least four frigates.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyden said she welcomed the decision, adding that “Europe will ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, working alongside our international partners.
“Beyond crisis response, it's a step towards a stronger European presence at sea to protect our European interests.”
The launch of EUNAVFOR Aspides follows after another attack by Houthi rebels on maritime vessels in opposition to Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza.
An unnamed bulk tanker owned by a US maritime interest but sailing under Greece’s flag was attacked – twice – while making its way to the Port of Aden with a load of grain from Punta Alvear in Argentina.
It was about 100 nautical miles or 185 kilometers east of its destination in Yemen when it came under fire.
As it continued to approach the port, it sustained a secondary barrage of military fire. None of its 23 crew were injured.
In another attack on the same day, February 19, a Belize-flagged bulker, the Rubymar, also came under attack, much closer to Bab al-Mandab.
The British-owned vessel was so badly hit it was listing to one side, looking like it could sink.
According to unconfirmed information, Germany, France, Italy and Belgium will lead the EUNAVFOR Aspides operation around the Horn of Africa.
