Operation 'Aspides': Increased Alert Level for US and Israeli Ships in Red Sea

Operation 'Aspides', aimed at protecting navigation in the Red Sea, has announced an increase in the alert level to 'high' for ships linked to the United States of America and Israel. This decision took effect on June 22.

According to the announcement, this change is due to recent international and regional developments in the wider area. Operation 'Aspides' advises ships with American and Israeli interests to avoid routes passing through the territorial waters of Yemen, including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden.

Conversely, the risk assessment remains 'low' for ships not connected to US or Israeli interests, although it is noted that the possibility of being targeted cannot be ruled out.

Operation 'Aspides' continues to provide protection and monitoring services for the passage of the Red Sea, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden region, continuously monitoring the evolution of threats and their potential impact on maritime security.

The operation remains committed to its defensive mission and offers free support in the region. Shipmasters can contact the Maritime Security Centre Indian Ocean (MSCIO) for any unusual incidents.

Recommendations from Operation 'Aspides' are available on the MSCIO website.