Saudi Arabia Establishes Multinational Defensive Maritime Coalition
Saudi Arabia has taken a major step in establishing a multinational defensive maritime coalition to protect key trade routes from security threats. The initiative, announced on July 30, 2026, aims to enhance maritime security and counter threats targeting navigation and global trade.
The meeting was attended by chiefs of staff and representatives from 43 countries, including the European Union delegation in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia's defense ministry stated that the coalition falls within the framework of efforts aimed at protecting international sea lanes and countering threats.
The move comes amid escalating tensions in regional waters after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militias announced a naval blockade on Saudi shipping in the Red Sea, claiming responsibility for targeting two Saudi oil tankers. The proposed coalition will be headquartered in Saudi Arabia, with 14 countries already supporting the initiative.