Italy has initiated preparations for a naval operation aimed at safeguarding the passage of its vessels through the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto announced on Thursday. The move reflects Italy’s intent to independently secure its maritime interests in the strategically vital waterway without awaiting a collective decision from the European Union’s Aspides maritime mission.

Speaking at the Risorsa Mare forum in La Spezia, Crosetto emphasized that Italy would not delay action pending the EU initiative’s assessment on the safety of transiting ships. “We have decided, with the chief of staff, not to wait for Aspides to decide whether the ships can pass or not,” Crosetto said.

The Italian Defence Ministry confirmed that the Navy has been directed to prepare for all necessary measures to ensure the secure transit of Italian-flagged vessels through the Bab Al-Mandab Strait. This narrow maritime chokepoint, which connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, is a crucial route for global shipping and has been a focus of international naval operations due to regional instability and security threats.

Reports indicate that Italy is evaluating whether military assets already in the region could be placed under national command to support this effort. Among the forces considered is the frigate Bergamini, which is currently stationed in Djibouti. However, no final decision has been disclosed regarding the deployment of the ship or additional naval units.

The Italian government’s move underscores growing concerns over maritime security in the Bab Al-Mandab area, where piracy, regional conflicts, and geopolitical tensions have periodically endangered commercial shipping. Italy’s proactive stance suggests a willingness to act independently to safeguard its maritime commerce in a region that remains critical for international trade routes.