Saudi Arabia and 13 Countries Form Maritime Defense Alliance

Saudi Arabia and thirteen other countries have created a new international group to protect ships traveling through important waterways in West Asia. The group was announced after military leaders from many nations met in Riyadh to discuss the alliance.

The coalition aims to address growing threats to global maritime security. It will work as a partnership to improve safety on the seas, ensure freedom of navigation, and safeguard trade routes and energy supplies. The focus will be on protecting shared interests in strategic areas like the Bab El-Mandeb Strait, Red Sea, and Gulf of Aden, all in line with international law.

The founding members include Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Yemen, Nigeria, Sudan, Djibouti, and Somalia. The group is purely defensive and does not target any specific country or organization. All activities will follow international law, respect national sovereignty, and protect freedom of navigation. Saudi Arabia leads the coalition and will host its permanent headquarters.