Defence Ministry: The Council of Ministers endorses the extension of International Missions. Kick off for two new missions: Aspides and Levante

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“The Governmet’s decision to extend out-of-theatre missions and submit the endorsement of two new missions, Aspides and Levante, to the Parliament testifies to the important role played by the Armed Forces in defending the interests of the country. Italy – who was requested to assume the tactical command of Mission Aspides- will implement a fundamental task for the protection of maritime routes and fight against all forms of terrorism and hybrid war. Moreover, Mission Levante confirms Italy’s will to help the Palestinian people, who are the victims of Hamas’ terrorist attacks.

“It is a commitment at 360° which, in line with developments in the international scenario, underlines the constant operational effort of the women and men of the Defence, both at home and abroad”, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said regarding the decision made by the Council of Ministers.

The Council, that met yesterday under the chairmanship of President Giorgia Meloni, endorsed the extension of out-of-theatre missions and development cooperation activities in support of peace and stabilization processes, in compliance with Law 145/2016. The start of two new missions, Aspides and Levante, was also approved.

With regard with the latter, Aspides was established following the approval of the European Union. It provides for the engagement of an integrated mechanism in the Red Sea and North-Western Indian Ocean, in synergy with missions EUNAVFOR ATALANTA, EMASOH and Combined Maritime Forces. Mission Levante, on the other hand, provides for the engagement of a military mechanism within Italy’s national contribution aimed to implement humanitarian interventions for the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip, due to the Middle East conflict.

The decision will now be submitted to the Parliament for the necessary authorization, as provided by the law on international missions. As soon as it will be on the agenda, the Defence Minister and Foreign Affair Minister will be heard by the Chambers with regard to Mission Aspides. After the Parliament’s green light and relevant endorsement for the departure of the naval mission, Italy  -as requested by the EU- will take the tactical and operational command of the mission. A recognition which gives our country a decisive role in that area, for the protection of trade routes and freedom of navigation.