European powers announced plans to collaborate on safeguarding shipping in the Red Sea and vowed to send naval and other support to Cyprus amid the ongoing U. S.–Iran war, which has now lasted six days. This conflict has affected global markets, significantly increasing oil and gas prices. Italy, Spain, France, and the Netherlands will dispatch naval assets to Cyprus soon, as revealed by Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto.
During discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, the prime ministers of Italy and Greece agreed to improve cooperation to secure maritime traffic in the Red Sea and coordinate military deployments to Cyprus. Despite these measures, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized that Italy is not at war and does not wish to engage in the conflict.
On Cyprus, British Defence Secretary John Healey met with his Cypriot counterpart to enhance air defense measures, asserting the strong UK-Cyprus friendship. Britain is sending a destroyer and additional helicopters to the area, although these forces are expected to arrive next week. The UK has refrained from offensive actions against Iran but has participated in defensive operations.
Spain plans to send its Christopher Columbus frigate to assist with air defense in Cyprus, while the Netherlands is considering assistance for maritime security. Meloni confirmed that Italy would respond to requests for air defense equipment from Gulf nations to protect its citizens and troops. Possible supplies may include missile batteries, although no final decision has yet been made.
Additionally, France has allowed a temporary presence of U. S. aircraft at certain bases, ensuring they are not used for offensive operations against Iran.
With information from Reuters
