What is the objective of the 'Mission Aspides' that the European Union recently launched in the Red Sea?

In order to protect commercial ships in the Red Sea from possible attacks by the Houthi rebels, who are supported by Iran, the European Union launched Mission Aspides. Warships and aerial early warning systems are being deployed as part of an EU naval operation in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and adjacent waters. The participating nations are Belgium, France, Germany, and Italy. Aspides ships are based in Larissa, Greece, and are only permitted to fire in retaliation for Houthi attacks. They follow stringent rules of engagement. The mission, which was first scheduled to last a year, may be extended.