The deployment of the German frigate “Hessen” to protect merchant ships in the Red Sea can begin. The Bundestag has approved the Bundeswehr’s mandate for the EU mission “Aspides”. The frigate is already on its way.
The Bundestag has approved German participation in the EU mission “Aspides” with a large majority. 538 of 573 MPs voted in favor in a roll-call vote, 31 against and 4 abstained. In addition to the three traffic light factions SPD, Greens and FDP, the CDU/CSU and the AfD also signaled their approval in the debate.
The “Hessen” had already set off from Wilhelmshaven towards the operational area a good two weeks ago in order to be able to begin fulfilling its mission immediately after the Bundestag decision. “This procedure represents a turning point,” said Defense Minister Boris Pistorius after the Bundestag decision. The 240 men and women on board stood up for the freedom of sea routes and contributed to the stabilization of the region. “But we must also be clear: the operation of the “Hesse” is one of the most dangerous for the German Navy in decades.”
Significant impact on the global economy
The Houthi militia operating from Yemen wants to force an end to the Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip by shelling merchant ships in the Red Sea, which are a response to the terrorist attack by the Islamist Hamas on October 7th. The sea route through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal is one of the most important trade routes in the world. Because of the attacks by the Houthis, who are armed by Iran, large shipping companies are increasingly avoiding the shortest sea connection between Asia and Europe. This is now having a significant impact on the global economy.
The USA and Great Britain have recently attacked Houthi targets in Yemen. The EU operation, on the other hand, is purely defensive. A total of 18 countries are involved in the operation. In addition to Germany, Belgium, Italy and France are sending ships to the Red Sea.