Germany dispatches a frigate to aid securing shipping in Red Sea

Germany has taken a significant step by deploying a warship to bolster security measures in the Red Sea amid escalating tensions caused by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This move signifies a major commitment from the German navy, as emphasized by navy chief Jan Christian Kaack, who described it as “the most serious engagement of a unit of the German navy in many decades.”

The decision to dispatch the frigate comes in response to a series of attacks orchestrated by the Houthi rebels against ships traversing the Red Sea since November. The rebels claim these assaults are in solidarity with Palestinians amidst the conflict between Israel and Hamas. These attacks have disrupted maritime trade in the region, as the Red Sea typically facilitates around 12 percent of global shipping.

The unrest has forced some shipping companies to reroute vessels away from the Red Sea, opting for longer and more costly passages around the southern tip of Africa. The repercussions of these actions are significant, impacting trade routes vital for global commerce.

The German frigate, named “Hesse,” departed from the port of Wilhelmshaven with a crew of approximately 240 personnel, equipped to respond to various forms of attacks, including missiles, drones, and remotely controlled “kamikaze boats.” Its primary mission is to safeguard commercial vessels and intercept potential threats.

However, the deployment of the frigate hinges on approval from the German parliament and the European Union. Concurrently, the EU is deliberating on launching a naval mission to enhance security for merchant ships in the Red Sea. A decision on this matter is expected before the upcoming meeting of EU foreign ministers on February 19, with countries like Italy, France, and Belgium expressing interest in participating.

Meanwhile, the United States and the United Kingdom have conducted joint strikes in recent weeks aimed at diminishing the Houthis’ capacity to target vessels transiting the Red Sea. Despite these efforts, the rebels remain defiant in their commitment to continue attacks.

The significance of securing the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, which connects it to the Mediterranean Sea, cannot be overstated. The trade flow between Asia and Europe heavily relies on these waterways. However, according to the International Monetary Fund’s PortWatch platform, transit volume through the Suez Canal has declined by 37 percent compared to the previous year, reflecting the adverse impact of ongoing disruptions.

In summary, Germany’s deployment of a frigate underscores the growing concern over maritime security in the Red Sea and the urgent need for international cooperation to safeguard vital trade routes against threats posed by armed groups and regional instability.