Saudi Arabia Forms Maritime Defense Alliance Amid Houthi Threats

Saudi Arabia has taken a major step to secure its oil exports by setting up a maritime defense alliance in the Red Sea, following threats from Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis.

The alliance, which includes 14 countries, aims to enhance maritime security and safeguard freedom of navigation through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical waterway for delivering Saudi crude to international markets.

The move comes after the Houthis claimed attacks targeting Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea and oil infrastructure in the kingdom. Saudi Arabia is the world's top oil exporter.

A joint statement from the 14 countries in the alliance stated that their goal is to secure international trade routes, energy supply lines, and shared maritime interests in the region.