Saudi Arabia is actively seeking to establish an international coalition aimed at safeguarding maritime traffic in the Red Sea from attacks orchestrated by Houthi militants, according to two individuals privy to ongoing discussions.
The exact composition of this proposed coalition remains under deliberation, with Riyadh reportedly engaged in discussions with numerous nations. Official comment from the Saudi Center for International Communication was not immediately available.
The Iran-aligned Houthis declared on July 20 their intention to implement a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea. This action was framed by the group as a response to what they characterized as a Saudi siege on Yemen, an accusation that Riyadh has consistently refuted.
Since that declaration, the Houthis have claimed responsibility for launching attacks targeting Saudi vessels operating within the Red Sea. In response, Saudi Arabia has conducted airstrikes against facilities it identified as Houthi military installations at Yemen's Hodeidah port, asserting these sites were utilized to threaten commercial shipping routes.
This developing blockade represents a new dimension in the broader regional conflict involving Iran and has expanded the scope of attacks on vessels transporting energy and other vital supplies beyond the Persian Gulf. The escalating tensions have also contributed to an increase in global oil prices.
