https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/italy-readies-navy-to-protect-its-shipping-amid-bab-el-mandeb-tensionsContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/italy-readies-navy-to-protect-its-shipping-amid-bab-el-mandeb-tensionshttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/italy-readies-navy-to-protect-its-shipping-amid-bab-el-mandeb-tensions#u76683Sat, 19 Sep 2026 20:50:41 +0000Italy is deploying warships to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to safeguard its commercial vessels from growing Houthi control. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto stated Rome will act independently rather than waiting for a European Union joint decision, citing the need to avoid bureaucratic delays in a volatile environment. Crosetto warned that a blocked strategic waterway could cause serious consequences for the global economy. The move follows an expansion of Houthi presence along Yemen's western Red Sea coastline and surrounding islands.Why it mattersThe Bab el-Mandeb is a critical chokepoint f