The EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said that member states have agreed to contribute to a multinational operation announced by the US to safeguard commerce in the Red Sea, Paralel.Az reports citing The National News.

The move comes as attacks by Iran-backed Yemeni militants forced major shipping companies to reroute, stoking fears of sustained disruptions to global trade.

"Irresponsible Houthi actions are a threat to freedom of navigation in the Red Sea," Mr Borrel said on social media platform X.

"We will intensify our information sharing and increase our presence with additional naval assets," he said.

"This demonstrates the EU’s role as a maritime security provider. We match words with action.