Red Sea, sensational change of guard: Italy now directs the task force
Sensational turning point regarding the international mission on Red Sea to deal with attacks on merchant ships carried out by Houthis. There US Navy relinquished command of the Combined Task Force (CTF) 153 to Italian navy during a change of command ceremony at Combined Maritime Forces headquarters. The US Central Command writes it on X. The Captain of the Italian Navy Roberto Messina assumed command from U.S. Navy Captain David Coles, who has commanded CTF 153 since November. This It is the third time that Italy assumes command of the CMF task force since the 42-nation maritime partnership was established in 2002.
David Coles: “AND a true honor hand over command to a incredibly strong maritime partner like Italy. I know the Task Force is in good hands and I look forward to celebrating CTF 153's future accomplishments under Captain Messina's leadership.” Messina now leads a multinational staff of 35 people from 10 countries, planning, coordinating and executing maritime security operations. Messina said this teamwork highlights the strong international partnerships necessary to ensure the regional maritime stability.
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