Why is Saudi Arabia forming a coalition to protect the Red Sea?

Saudi Arabia has initiated plans to establish an international coalition dedicated to safeguarding shipping routes in the Red Sea against attacks perpetrated by Iran-backed Houthi forces operating from Yemen. The proposed alliance represents a coordinated response to escalating maritime threats that have disrupted critical global trade corridors and energy supplies.

The Houthis imposed a maritime blockade affecting the kingdom on July 20, which has diverted oil shipments and disrupted normal trade flows through the region. Intelligence reports indicate the group may also implement toll systems on vessels transiting the Bab al-Mandeb Strait off Yemen's coast. These actions have contributed to elevated global energy prices and created significant supply chain disruptions, particularly affecting Gulf exports that previously moved through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Saudi-led coalition is expected to be headquartered in Riyadh and could be formally unveiled imminently. Dozens of countries have received invitations to participate, though final membership remains unconfirmed. Reported invitees include the United States, Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey, Djibouti, Somalia, Sudan, and several European nations including Germany, France, and Italy. At least three Red Sea nations—Egypt, Djibouti, and Sudan—have reportedly agreed to participate.

Saudi Arabia has established a deadline of approximately 50 countries to confirm their participation. While the United States, a key Saudi ally, has not yet formally confirmed involvement, participation is widely anticipated. Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday to discuss the initiative and related regional security concerns. The prince conveyed that Saudi Arabia opposes further escalation of U.S.-Israel military operations against Iran but remains prepared to defend itself independently.