Saudi-Led Coalition Seeks to Safeguard Key Waterways Amid Escalating Threats

Saudi Arabia has led the establishment of a multinational maritime defense coalition aimed at safeguarding freedom of navigation and international trade routes in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, Red Sea, and Gulf of Aden. The coalition was announced on Thursday after an international meeting hosted by Riyadh, attended by chiefs of staff and representatives from 43 countries, including a delegation from the European Union.

The founding states said participation would remain a sovereign decision for each member state, emphasizing that the alliance is purely defensive in nature and does not target any state or organization. The coalition's charter aims to enhance maritime security, protect freedom of navigation, secure international trade and energy supply routes, and safeguard maritime interests.

The Saudi Defense Ministry stated that Thursday's meeting addressed growing threats to maritime security, including the security of commercial vessels and oil tankers. Participants reached understandings on finalizing establishment procedures, including the draft alliance charter and necessary organizational structures and technical arrangements.