Iran Press/ Europe: The Houthis, who control much of Yemen are acting in solidarity with the Palestinians as Israel’s military offensive against the Palestinians in Gaza continues. The Houthis are only targeting merchant vessels connected to Israel in an effort to stop genocide happening in the occupied Palestinian territory.
“Not all member states will be willing to participate but no one will obstruct,” Josep Borrell told reporters ahead of a European Union defence ministers’ meeting. “I hope that on the 17th [of February] the mission can be launched.”
Borrell said that the EU operation would be named Aspides — “Protector” — and its mandate would be to protect commercial traffic and intercept attacks, but not take part in strikes against the Houthis.
He added that the aim on Wednesday is to pick a lead nation, and outline where the mission would be headquartered, who would participate and with what assets.
France, Greece and Italy have shown interest in leading the mission, with seven countries so far indicating that they would be willing to send naval assets, said diplomats. They explained that it would be based off existing EU missions in the region. The operation would initially see three vessels under EU command. France and Italy already have warships in the region, and Germany plans to send the Hesse frigate to the area, they added.
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