Saudi Arabia has announced a new multinational maritime defense alliance that includes Bangladesh and 13 other countries, aimed at safeguarding freedom of navigation in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Saudi Defense Ministry announced the Multinational Maritime Defense Alliance on July 30, saying it would strengthen joint maritime defense cooperation and protect key routes for international trade and energy supplies.

Other members are Turkey, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, Egypt, Pakistan, Djibouti, Somalia, Yemen, Sudan and Comoros. Representatives from 43 of 51 invited countries attended the alliance-forming meeting, alongside a European Union delegation. The EU already operates its Aspides maritime-security mission in the Red Sea, but the source said it remains unclear how the Saudi-led alliance’s activities will differ.

The alliance will exchange intelligence, develop joint plans, conduct coordinated exercises and undertake maritime operations. Saudi Arabia did not immediately disclose how many warships or aircraft members would contribute. It said the alliance is entirely defensive and not directed at any specific state. Its headquarters will be in Saudi Arabia, at an undisclosed location, while countries may join later after completing required national legal or administrative procedures.