Divisions within the EU are raising concerns over the security of one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors. On 10 November, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto criticised EU member states for failing to commit additional naval resources to protect shipping in the Red Sea.
The controversy follows Italy’s September request to strengthen Operation Aspides, the EU naval mission launched in 2024 to protect vessels from Houthi attacks. According to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the mission would require more than ten warships to operate effectively. However, negotiations have stalled as several member states remain reluctant or unable to deploy additional military assets.
The stakes extend far beyond regional security. The Red Sea, connected to the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal, is a critical artery for global trade. About 40% of Italy’s international trade passes through the canal, making disruptions particularly costly for the country.
The wider conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has destabilised key maritime routes, including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Strait of Hormuz. Attacks on commercial vessels have increased shipping costs and raised fears of inflationary pressure.
The situation exposes a broader challenge for European strategic autonomy: despite growing geopolitical instability, EU countries have struggled to coordinate their military capabilities and share responsibility for protecting international trade routes.
References:
[Cover Image] IDF Spokesperson’s Unit. (2023, November 1). Sol-War 23-11-01 IDF 15-04 [Photograph]. Wikimedia Commons. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sol-War_23-11-01_IDF_15-04.jpg. CC BY-SA 3.0.
Amante, A. (2026, November 10). Italy says EU nations failed to commit to Red Sea security. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/italy-says-eu-nations-failed-commit-red-sea-security-2026-11-10/
0 Comments
No comments yet. You can start the conversation below.