On September 18–19, 2026, Italy announced plans to deploy warships to protect commercial vessels through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, with Defence Minister Guido Crosetto warning of severe economic fallout if the waterway became impassable. Italy indicated it would act independently without waiting for an EU decision.
Italy announced plans on September 17-18 to deploy naval forces to protect merchant shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait amid mounting security concerns. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto called on September 18 for a stronger naval presence to safeguard Red Sea navigation.
Yemen's Houthi militants seized the strategic Mayun Island on September 12–13, 2026, solidifying their control over the Bab al-Mandeb Strait connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. Analysts note the takeover strengthens their position but long-term holding of the island faces challenges.