The EU Engagement in the Red Sea - by George N. Tzogopoulos

Named after the Greek word for “shields,” the operation aims to safeguard maritime security and ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. [...] In the words of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, the US-UK action “is based on the right of self-defense.” The Netherlands, which has a long history as a sea-faring nation, places great importance on the right of free passage and is demonstrating that commitment with its participation in the Red Sea. [...] According to the essay, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE might find it politically easier to support the EU operation than the American one. [...] Naturally, the Jewish State does not perceive the Iranian threat the way the Europeans do. [...] Tzogopoulos is a BESA contributor, a lecturer at the European Institute of Nice (CIFE) and at the Democritus University of Thrace, and a Senior Fellow at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy.