Operation Aspides: The European Union’s Response to the Red Sea Crisis
While underscoring the EU’s ambitions to expand its maritime security goals in the region, Operation Aspides faces operational and political challenges.
Leonardo Jacopo Maria Mazzucco
Contributor
Leonardo Jacopo Maria Mazzucco is a researcher who focuses on the security affairs of the Gulf region. He is also an analyst at Gulf State Analytics, a Washington-based geopolitical risk consultancy. He tweets at: @mazz_Leonardo.
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Saudi Defense Sector Makes Strides in Air Power
Aerial threats and economic diversification plans have compelled Riyadh to expand domestic defense production and diversify its procurement sources.
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Has Regional Detente Paved the Way for Collective Maritime Security in the Gulf?
While a regional naval alliance remains distant, de-escalation has created an opening for maritime security cooperation.
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First EU Gulf Envoy Takes Office Amid Push to Revamp Ties
As the last of several measures taken by Brussels to shore up EU-GCC relations, the appointment of a special representative for the Gulf is intended to enhance the EU’s regional presence and create a conducive atmosphere for engagement.
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Targeted Acquisitions, Major Commissions: The UAE's Dual Approach to the Naval Defense Sector
The UAE has sought to enhance its naval might and secure its fast-expanding networks of ports and logistics infrastructure to match its evolving strategic and commercial ambitions, in the Middle East and beyond.
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Countering Smuggling in the Arabian Sea: Multinational Approach Delivering Results
Despite the growing effectiveness of maritime operations along the route from Iran to Yemen, drug and weapons trafficking remains a serious threat with consequences for regional security.
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With Eye on Stability, Saudis Shift Role in Afghanistan
With the new Taliban regime in Kabul, Saudi leaders are likely to remain cautious and keep a close eye on power dynamics. But they are likely to keep some channels of communication open with the Taliban to promote stability in the region.
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Investing in Geography: Will the Saudi Bid to Become a Logistics Hub Pay Dividends?
With more than 1,400 miles of coast overlooking two of the busiest global shipping routes and a unique geographic position connecting three continents, Saudi Arabia has placed logistics at the core of its economic diversification agenda.
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Living Up to Its Reputation: A Critical Look at Crime in the UAE
The same conditions that have enabled steady economic growth in the UAE have also provided legislative loopholes and opportunities for criminal and illicit activities; but ensuring an attractive business environment is a fundamental priority to boost the country’s economic recovery.