Saudi Arabia is moving to establish a multinational maritime coalition aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Red Sea amid growing security threats from Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. According to reports, Riyadh has invited around 50 countries to join the alliance as attacks on vessels and energy infrastructure continue to disrupt one of the world's busiest trade corridors.
The proposed coalition, expected to be headquartered in Riyadh, seeks to safeguard shipping routes linking the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Suez Canal. Several countries, including Egypt, Djibouti and Sudan, have reportedly expressed support, while the United States and several European nations are also believed to have received invitations.
The initiative follows the Houthis' maritime blockade targeting Saudi-linked shipping and repeated attacks on oil tankers and energy facilities. The group has also reportedly considered imposing tolls on ships passing through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, raising concerns over freedom of navigation and international maritime law.
The Red Sea has become increasingly important after disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz forced Gulf nations to reroute a significant portion of oil exports through Saudi Arabia's Red Sea ports. Any prolonged disruption threatens global energy supplies, shipping schedules and international trade.
Military and diplomatic efforts are now focused on preventing further escalation while ensuring the uninterrupted movement of commercial vessels. Analysts believe the proposed coalition could strengthen regional maritime security and reassure global markets, though its effectiveness will depend on broad international participation and coordinated naval operations.
The latest developments highlight growing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, where maritime security has become a central concern for energy exporters and global trading nations.
