Rome – In a decisive move to shield Italian commerce, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said on Thursday that Italy is ready to launch a naval operation to ensure the safe passage of its merchant ships through the Bab el‑Mandeb Strait.
Government Action to Guard Shipping Lanes
Speaking from Rome, Crosetto confirmed that he and the chief of defence staff have agreed to mobilise the navy and prepare “whatever is necessary” to guarantee secure transit for Italian vessels. He stressed that any bureaucratic hesitation could worsen an already complex security situation, with direct repercussions for the Italian economy and the daily lives of citizens.
Rising Threats in the Red Sea
The decision comes amid heightened concerns in the Red Sea after the Iran‑aligned Houthis seized control of parts of Yemen’s coastline overlooking the Bab el‑Mandeb. Their actions threaten Saudi oil exports that have been rerouted from the Strait of Hormuz, creating a volatile environment for international shipping.
“I have decided … to activate the Italian navy to prepare what is necessary to guarantee the safe transit of Italian ships,” Crosetto said in an official statement. “We cannot allow bureaucratic delays in decision‑making to aggravate an already complex situation, with direct consequences for our economy and the lives of our citizens.”
Economic Impact on Italian Families
Crosetto warned that disruptions to major shipping lanes would likely drive up transport costs, delay deliveries and ultimately push higher prices onto families and businesses across Italy. “Every economic crisis hits the most vulnerable people hardest, putting social cohesion and the country’s stability at risk,” he added.
Protecting Undersea Infrastructure
The defence minister also highlighted the vulnerability of undersea infrastructure, including data cables and energy links, noting that safeguarding these assets is essential for national security and prosperity.
“For a major maritime nation such as Italy, monitoring and protecting the seas, both above and below the surface, means safeguarding its security, its prosperity and its future,” Crosetto said. “The defence ministry and the Italian navy will continue to protect the sea, intervening with determination whenever necessary to safeguard national interests and the security of Italians.”
What Remains Unclear
While the announcement signals a strong commitment, Crosetto did not detail the specific naval assets or measures that might be deployed to the region. The move underscores Italy’s resolve to protect its commercial interests and maintain stability in a key global shipping corridor.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
