Spain’s prime minister indicated that Madrid would not block a potential European Union operation in the Red Sea targeting Houthi positions. He conveyed this stance in a national newspaper interview. The country has not signaled an intention to participate in the proposed mission, despite having more than 3,000 troops engaged in various international deployments.
He acknowledged that the EU Council could proceed with the mission, but stressed that Spain did not plan to join, given existing commitments and the belief that other nations should take the lead in this operation.
Earlier, Italy’s defense minister stated that Rome would participate if the EU undertakes action in the Red Sea. He noted that any decision to participate would require parliamentary approval, and thus would involve a formal process before any deployment.
Meanwhile, the United States has moved its carrier strike group into the Strait of Aden in response to attacks by Houthi forces, signaling a broadened regional security dynamic and the potential for increased military activity in the area.