Khaberni - The European Union decided on Monday to extend the mandate of its maritime security operation "Aspides," to protect freedom of navigation in the context of the Red Sea crisis until February 28, 2027, following the completion of the strategic review of the operation.
In accordance with the decision, the European Council approved a financial envelope of approximately 15 million euros to cover the joint operational costs from March 1, 2026, through the end of February 2027, with an additional strategic review of the operation to be conducted during 2026 and 2027.
The extension of the operation contributes to enhancing the protection of freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and surrounding waters, in light of ongoing threats facing commercial and cargo ships, providing "Aspides" with a framework for defensive maritime security, ship protection, and support for stability along the main maritime navigation routes, in accordance with the rules of international law.
The decision reaffirms the European Union's continued commitment to maritime security, maintaining regional stability, and protecting global trade movement.
The headquarters of the "Aspides" operation are located in Larissa, Greece, and are led by Admiral Vassilios Griberis.
The European Union launched the "Aspides" operation in February 2024 as a defensive operation in response to the Red Sea crisis, following repeated attacks on international navigation since October 2023, where the operation works on protecting ships and securing main maritime communication lines, especially around the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, in addition to monitoring maritime conditions in the Strait of Hormuz, international waters in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and the Gulf.
