"EU Launches Naval Mission to Protect Red Sea Shipping from Houthi Attacks"
The European Union has launched a naval mission, Operation Aspides, to protect cargo ships in the Red Sea from attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels, with European warships and early warning systems being deployed to the region. The mission aims to ensure freedom of navigation and protect European interests, with contributions from countries including France, Germany, Italy, and Belgium. Houthi attacks on shipping have caused disruptions to global trade and increased delivery times and costs, prompting the EU to take action to safeguard maritime routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.