Australia takes leadership of Red Sea protection task force
Australia is set to lead an international mission to safeguard shipping routes in the Red Sea for the first time.
The area has been targeted by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the past to disrupt trade and retaliate against Israel following a Hamas attack on October 7.
From October, Australia will take control of Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153) for six months, focusing on maritime security in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb, and Gulf of Aden.
Last year, the Albanese government faced criticism for not deploying a warship in response to a U.S. request for maritime security in the Middle East.
Australia will continue its support for the Combined Maritime Force, which was reinforced in December due to Houthi attacks, according to the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
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Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Chief of Joint Operations, emphasized the significance of this role in upholding international regulations.
He stated, “Working alongside 44 other member nations, the Australian Defence Force’s command of CTF 153 is crucial for promoting maritime safety and security and supporting free and fair trade within an international rules-based system.”
An expert from the Australian National University, Jennifer Parker, highlighted the valuable experience Australian Navy personnel would gain from leading this operation, which could be beneficial in future crisis scenarios in the Indo-Pacific region.
She mentioned, “Given the increasing competition in the maritime domain, it is essential for Australia to enhance its capability to respond to potential crises affecting maritime trade.”
