Multinational coalition takes shape to secure Red Sea shipping lanes
RastinewsTalks have begun on a new defense coalition covering the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden — one of the world's most critical shipping corridors. Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, Sudan and Djibouti have voiced support for the initiative, and Saudi Arabia is emerging as the likely host for its headquarters.
Representatives from 43 countries and an EU delegation gathered in Riyadh for high-level talks on securing the strategic sea lanes that carry a large share of global trade.
Discussions focused on building joint mechanisms to respond to regional risks and potential threats, with the goal of putting defense coordination on a formal institutional footing. Saudi Arabia's role is coming into sharper focus as the coalition's founding and leading member, expected to host its headquarters.