Germany Pushes to Extend Naval Mission in Red Sea Against Houthi Threat

Germany’s Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has urged continued military involvement in the European Union's maritime mission in the Red Sea to safeguard international trade routes from constant Houthi attack.

Addressing the Bundestag on September 10, Pistorius underscored that Germany needs to be a consistent partner in global security. "We take responsibility and act swiftly. We are also proving our commitment beyond Europe through our contribution to the EU Operation ASPIDES," he stated.

The mandate for Germany's contribution to ASPIDES, initiated in February 2024, will be extended until October 31, 2026. The Bundeswehr's personnel limit will be decreased from 700 to 350 soldiers, with contributions such as headquarters personnel in Greece, command ship support, and airborne maritime surveillance flights. Participation with naval ships is also still an option.

EUNAVFOR ASPIDES operates in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Strait of Hormuz, and adjacent waters such as the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf. The mission aims to protect maritime traffic in regions where Iran-backed Yemeni Houthi militias have consistently attacked commercial shipping since late 2023.

The attacks have compelled shipping lines to divert ships away from the Red Sea and Suez Canal, incurring delays and increasing costs in detours through Africa's Cape of Good Hope.

A final Bundestag vote on the mandate is scheduled in its second reading.