Italy calls for increased naval forces in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to ensure the safety of commercial vessels amid rising tensions in the region.
As concerns about the safety of commercial vessels in the Red Sea rise again, Italy has called for an increase in naval forces in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The Rome government is working on an independent naval operation option that could protect the passage of Italian commercial vessels without waiting for a decision from the European Union.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated that there is a need for a stronger military presence to protect commercial maritime traffic in Bab el-Mandeb following the escalation of conflicts in the Middle East and the advance of Iran-backed Houthis along the Red Sea coast of Yemen. Crosetto explained that Italy does not want to wait for decisions to be made under the European Union's Aspides Operation and that options are being evaluated to ensure the safe passage of Italian vessels.
Italy is assessing its own operation.
Crosetto indicated that they have initiated a study with the Chief of General Staff to examine the security situation and to prepare a plan that would ensure the safe passage of Italian commercial vessels through Bab el-Mandeb. However, the Rome government has not yet announced a definitive decision regarding how many warships would be used in an independent mission or the details of the operation. The Defense Minister stated that any potential deployment would be evaluated in conjunction with the government and parliament.
Italy is currently participating in the Aspides Operation initiated by the EU to protect commercial vessels in the Red Sea in 2024. However, Crosetto argues that delays in decision-making processes could increase pressure on maritime transport and the national economy.
Italian frigate escorted commercial vessel.
Shortly after Italy's statements, a notable development occurred in the region. The Italian Navy's Carlo Bergamini frigate escorted the Jolly Oroad commercial vessel, owned by the Italian shipping company Ignazio Messina & C., during its passage north from Bab el-Mandeb as part of the Aspides Operation. The Italian Navy reported that the operation represents a concrete step towards ensuring the safety of commercial maritime transport.
40% of Italy's trade passes through Suez.
The security issue in the Red Sea holds significant economic importance for Italy. According to the Italian shipowners' association Assarmatori, approximately 40% of the country's trade with the world is conducted through the Suez Canal. Assarmatori President Stefano Messina also expressed support for the government's initiative, stating that the Italian Navy has the capacity and experience to operate in the region.
Bab el-Mandeb is one of the key transit points for maritime traffic between the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, and the Suez Canal. According to data reported by Reuters, the oil flow that corresponds to approximately 7% of global oil production passes through this strait. Therefore, the deterioration of security conditions in the region could directly affect not only Italy but also maritime trade between Asia and Europe.
Recent developments indicate that the security crisis in the Red Sea may rise back to the top of the global maritime agenda. Particularly, if vessels shift towards the Cape of Good Hope route, the pressure on transit times, fuel consumption, and freight costs may increase again.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
