Germany to Deploy Frigate in Red Sea for EU Operation

Germany is set to dispatch its frigate, Hessen, to the Red Sea next week as part of a European mission aimed at safeguarding merchant vessels from Yemen's Houthi rebels, according to reports from the DPA news agency.

The frigate, armed with air defense missiles among other capabilities, is anticipated to reach the Red Sea's waters by the month's end.

EU Foreign Policy Chief, Josep Borrell, stated on January 31 that the EU's objective is to establish and initiate the maritime operation in the Red Sea by no later than February 19.

Borrell emphasized that this mission would be purely defensive, with no land-based operations planned.

In November 2023, the Houthis had pledged to target ships associated with Israel until it ceased its military actions in the Gaza Strip. 

This declaration prompted US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to announce the formation of a multinational operation dedicated to securing navigation in the Red Sea.

Subsequently, the United States and the United Kingdom launched significant strikes against Houthi positions, aimed at diminishing their capacity to threaten commercial vessels.

Mid-January saw Borrell urging the Houthis to exercise restraint while emphasizing the right of nations to protect their ships from attacks.

He underscored the vital role of the Red Sea as a maritime route for the entire world, particularly Europe. 

Consequently, he proposed the establishment of an EU mission in the Red Sea to guarantee safe navigation.

Last week, Borrell confirmed that EU foreign ministers had reached an agreement to proceed with this mission.