Saudi Arabia Forms Multinational Alliance to Secure Bab el-Mandeb Strait

Saudi Arabia has launched an initiative to secure safe navigation in waters including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait off Yemen. The move comes as tensions rise following attacks on Saudi oil tankers by Iran-backed Houthi rebels earlier this month.

The initiative was discussed at an international meeting hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on Thursday, attended by 14 countries. The joint statement released after the meeting expressed support for a multinational maritime defense alliance to secure safe navigation in waters including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait has become an important alternative route to the Strait of Hormuz, and its security is crucial for global energy markets. The initiative aims to protect ships from attack and ensure the safe passage of vessels through the strait.