Canberra (Agencies): Australia will take command of the maritime task force in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden starting in October, the defense ministry announced on Friday.
The Combined Maritime Force’s Combined Task Force 153, established in April 2022, focuses on ensuring maritime security in the region. The task force was strengthened in December in response to a series of Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.
Since November, the Houthis have carried out dozens of attacks in the Red Sea, sinking two vessels, seizing another, and killing at least three sailors. These actions have disrupted global trade, forcing ship owners to avoid the Suez Canal, a crucial trade route.
Australia’s leadership of the task force aims to bolster security and stability in this vital maritime corridor.