The European Union is stepping up its efforts to combat attacks by Houthi rebels on cargo ships in the Red Sea. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell announced on Wednesday that the bloc plans to launch a naval mission within the next three weeks to defend vessels against the ongoing assaults, which have been disrupting trade and driving up prices.
Borrell expressed his aim for the mission to be operational by February 17th. Several EU member countries, including Belgium and Germany, have already pledged their support by offering ships or aircraft. It is anticipated that the German government will contribute a frigate to the cause. The EU hopes to have a total of seven participating countries.
The recent retaliatory strikes conducted by the United States and the United Kingdom targeted multiple Houthi locations, destroying missile-launching capabilities. This marked the second coordinated attack on the Iranian-backed rebels. However, Borrell made it clear that the EU mission will not engage in any military strikes, emphasizing its focus solely on protecting merchant ships.
'The purpose of this mission is the protection of ships and the interception of attacks by the Houthis,' Borrell stated during a press conference held before a meeting of EU defense ministers in Brussels. He reiterated that the mission's objective is not to directly confront the rebels but to defend against their attacks.
Later in the day, EU defense ministers were expected to decide on the leading member country for the naval effort, with France, Greece, and Italy vying for that role. Additionally, they would determine the headquarters location for the mission.
Trade implications have prompted businesses to press for EU intervention. The consistent attacks by the Houthi rebels have forced merchant ships to divert from the Red Sea route, resulting in increased costs and delays. Companies have been compelled to reroute their vessels through South Africa, leading to financial losses and inflationary pressures. Consequently, many European firms have urged the EU to take action to alleviate these challenges.
'It's affecting prices, it's affecting inflation. So, it's a natural endeavor for us to try to avoid this risk,' Borrell remarked, reiterating the economic strain caused by the disruptions.
As the EU prepares to launch its naval mission in the Red Sea, there is hope that it will successfully protect merchant ships and restore uninterrupted trade routes. By blocking Houthi attacks without engaging in direct military conflicts, the EU aims to alleviate the burdens faced by businesses and stabilize prices in the region.
