EU foreign ministers gathered in Brussels reached a consensus on launching a dedicated mission in the Red Sea to shield commercial vessels from the ongoing bombardment by Houthi forces. Josep Borrell, who directs the European Union’s foreign policy apparatus, announced the decision after the ministers concluded their discussions. The move signals a clear shift toward a coordinated, European-led effort designed to safeguard maritime lanes that are vital to global trade and to the economies of EU member states. The timing and scope of the mission were described as open to further specification as the European side continues to assess operational footprints, rules of engagement, and the necessary collaboration with international partners. The statement emphasized the commitment to protect freedom of navigation in one of the world’s busiest artery routes, while ensuring adherence to international law and proportional response in volatile conditions.
We decided to establish a European mission in the Red Sea and discussed various possibilities for such a mission, Borrell said. The plan envisions a multilateral, policy-informed naval presence that would deter unlawful interference and ensure safer passage for merchant ships, tankers, and container vessels that support Western economies and global supply lines. The discussions also touched on how the mission would interact with regional actors, maritime coalitions, and the United Nations framework to maximize effectiveness and minimize escalation. Borrell highlighted that the specific arrangement would be developed through ongoing diplomacy, with a focus on practical steps and clear objectives aimed at stabilizing this critical maritime corridor without prolonging conflict.
Earlier, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock urged swift, decisive action by EU members, stating that a military operation in the Red Sea should be launched without delay. She argued that Houthi attackers strike at ships almost daily, occurring in a manner that undermines one of the central veins of free navigation and, by extension, global trade. Baerbock stressed that a coordinated European naval effort would deter aggression and uphold international trade routes, stressing the urgency of protecting seaborne commerce as a common European security priority. Her comments reflected a belief that the current pattern of attacks threatens stability and economic interests not just for the region but for partners and customers around the world.
Previously, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani noted that a political decision about establishing the EU mission in the Red Sea would be taken soon, signaling alignment among member states on the core objective and the broad contours of the operation. Tajani underscored the importance of timely decision-making to ensure a credible and ready posture that can respond to evolving security dynamics in the region. His remarks complemented the broader consensus among EU governments that maritime security requires a collective, resolute approach, combining diplomatic avenues with practical, on-the-ground measures designed to safeguard ships and crews while limiting civilian harm.
There were also mentions that the Houthis had granted safe passage to certain international vessels, including Russian and Chinese ships, adding a layer of geopolitical complexity to the situation. Observers noted that the promise of safe transit may reflect strategic signaling amid shifting alliances and economic interests. The discussion within the EU framework acknowledged these developments and reinforced the need for clear rules of engagement, careful risk assessment, and robust coordination with partners to ensure that any mission remains within international legal norms and maritime law. The aim remains to preserve open sea lanes, protect workers at sea, and maintain the integrity of global supply chains amid a volatile security landscape.