German military to extend role in EU, NATO Mediterranean missions

The Bundeswehr, Germany’s military, is to continue to participate in NATO and EU missions in the Mediterranean Sea to monitor maritime space, combat terrorism and prevent the smuggling of weapons and people.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s Cabinet voted to extend two missions by a further year on Wednesday. The move also requires parliamentary approval.

The European Union’s Med Irini mission off the Libyan coast monitors the arms embargo imposed by the United Nations on Libya.

Almost 15 years since the overthrow of ruler Moamer Gaddafi in 2011, militias and two opposing governments are still fighting for power and influence in the North African country.

The mission is intended to prevent illegal oil exports and help combat networks of smugglers and human traffickers.

The Bundeswehr’s participation in NATO’s Operation Sea Guardian is also set to continue.

The mission is “presently conducting three maritime security tasks: maritime security capacity building, support to maritime situational awareness and maritime counter-terrorism,” according to the alliance’s website.