Sourced fact
The News
According to Al Jazeera channel, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced the formation of an alliance for defending the waters of the Red Sea. Thirteen other countries have joined this alliance.
Analysis & context
Analysis & Context
From a geopolitical perspective, this announcement comes in light of increasingly security risks witnessed in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital maritime passage connecting the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. The region has seen an escalation in tensions due to the activity of armed groups and terrorist threats, prompting Saudi Arabia to take precautionary measures. The creation of a multi-lateral alliance for defending the Red Sea represents an attempt to enhance maritime security in the area and mitigate risks threatening global trade. Historically, Saudi Arabia has played a significant role in ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, often operating independently or with specific allies to achieve this goal. The success of this alliance will depend on the ability of member states to cooperate and coordinate effectively, as well as convincing other parties to join it.
