German MPs approve naval deployment in Red Sea to protect ships from Houthi attacks

BERLIN

Germany’s parliament on Friday approved the deployment of naval forces in the Red Sea to prevent attacks from Yemen's Houthis.

Of 573 lawmakers who cast a vote, 538 voted in favor of the deployment, including those from Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government, and the main opposition center-right CDU/CSU alliance.

Thirty-one lawmakers, mostly from the opposition Left Party and the left-wing BSW, voted against it, while four lawmakers abstained.

The German naval frigate Hessen is set to join the European Union’s Aspides naval mission, which will focus on protecting ships transiting the Red Sea, and intercepting missiles and drones launched from Yemen.

The tasks of the German frigate will include accompanying merchant ships throughout the entire operational area, providing airborne reconnaissance and logistical support to international allies and partners.

The mandate allows the German government to deploy up to 700 soldiers as part of the mission, until the end of February 2025.