The official Facebook page of the military spokesman of the Egyptian Armed Forces reported that"as part of the efforts of the armed forces and in cooperation with the United

States of America and brotherly and friendly countries to confront threats and challenges aimed at the security and stability of the region and to complement the active Egyptian participation in the joint naval force (CMF), the Egyptian naval forces have assumed command of the Joint Task Force (153)".

The tasks of this force are to combat smuggling and illegal activities, especially terrorist activities in the areas of the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab and the Gulf of Aden.

The statement added: "Egypt is leading the force based on its pivotal role and close cooperation with the Naval Forces of the participating countries to shoulder our joint responsibilities towards improving the security environment in all regions and sea lanes, providing safe transit for the flow of ships through international sea lanes and countering all forms and images of organized crime that negatively affect the global trade movement and the interests of partner countries.

He concluded by saying: "the Armed Forces emphasize that the Joint Task Force (153) is one of the most important joint mechanisms to enhance regional security and stability and confront threats of all kinds".