Saudi Arabia Establishes Coalition for Maritime Defense Amid US-Iran Tensions

Saudi Arabia has established a multinational maritime defense coalition to protect freedom of navigation through key waterways, naming Rear Admiral Abdullah bin Salem Al-Shehri as its commander.

The coalition's formation comes amid heightened tensions in the region, particularly with the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. The Bab al-Mandeb Strait, Red Sea, and Gulf of Aden are critical routes for international trade and energy supplies, accounting for approximately 20% of global oil and gas shipments.

The coalition's goals include securing these vital waterways and ensuring freedom of navigation, with the Saudi Ministry of Defence stating that it will welcome new member countries aligning with its objectives. The Multinational Maritime Defence Coalition currently comprises 14 founding members, including Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey, among others.