Italy plans to deploy up to four warships, including frigates, to the Bab el-Mandeb to safeguard shipping, the government said. Defense Minister Crosetto has written to EU High Representative kallas urging a timely, effective EU decision to prevent transit disruptions. Crosetto said if other EU members currently in the Red Sea 'Shield' escort mission do not provide ships, Italy will act alone, deploying up to four vessels, and that other members should share the related costs.