Turkey extends naval deployment in Gulf of Aden for another year

(MENAFN) Turkey has extended the deployment of its naval forces in the Gulf of Aden, the Arabian Sea, and surrounding waters for an additional year starting February 10, 2026, according to a presidential motion published in the Official Gazette.

The extension aims to safeguard Turkish-flagged and Turkey-linked commercial vessels, support international efforts against piracy, armed robbery, and maritime terrorism, assist humanitarian operations, and enhance Turkey’s naval operational experience and international cooperation.

Türkiye has been actively involved in international anti-piracy missions since 2009, participating in NATO’s Operation Ocean Shield and the Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151), which it has commanded seven times between 2009 and 2025.

The motion noted that, despite Somalia requesting UN action, no Security Council resolution has renewed mandates on combating piracy and maritime crime in Somali waters since 2022.

It emphasized that operations in areas outside Somalia’s territorial waters continue under UN Security Council Resolution 1851, adopted in 2008.

The statement also highlighted the EU’s Operation Atalanta, which was extended until February 28, 2027, under a decision by the EU Council in December 2024.

The naval deployment extension underscores Turkey’s commitment to international and national obligations to maintain maritime security, freedom of navigation, and global peace and stability in accordance with international law.

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