The European Union has announced Italy’s renewed leadership of its maritime mission dedicated to safeguarding commercial shipping and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
On Thursday, the EU’s Operation Atalanta (known as ” Aspides” for this mission) confirmed that Italian Admiral Massimo Bono has assumed command of the task force from his predecessor, Dutch Rear Admiral George Pastor. Pastor led the mission since his appointment on June 15.
This marks the second time in less than a month that Italy has taken the helm of this mission. Italy previously led the operation until mid-June before passing the leadership to the Netherlands.
Operation Aspides continued its successful maritime operations under Rear Admiral Pastor’s leadership, upholding the EU’s commitment to maritime navigation and freedom in the region.
The mission praised the Dutch support ship “Dorman” and its crew, who have performed exceptionally since joining the mission on May 11. Their duties included refueling ships at sea and rescuing mariners in distress.
Operation Aspides will continue to fulfill its mandate under the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, ensuring adherence to international laws regarding maritime trade and securing the passage of commercial vessels through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
The EU launched Operation Aspides on February 19, 2024, in response to a surge in attacks by Houthi forces on commercial and military ships in the Red Sea and northwest Indian Ocean. The operation’s headquarters are located in Larissa, Greece, and its naval fleet includes European warships and frigates manned by crews from 19 countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Greece, and Belgium.
