Saudi Arabia joined on Wednesday the International Maritime Security Construct - a US-led international alliance that aims to protect merchant ships and ensure freedom of maritime navigation and international trade, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) cited an official source at the Ministry of Defense as saying.
"The Kingdom’s accession to the alliance comes in support of regional and international efforts to deter and counter threats to maritime navigation and global trade in order to secure freedom of navigation in the gulf amid heightened regional tensions," SPA reported.
The US formed the coalition after attacks on oil tankers that were widely blamed on Iran, as well as to address Iran's seizure of tankers in the region.
The alliance covers areas that include the Strait of Hormuz, Bab al-Mandab, Sea of Oman and the Arabian Gulf.
Bahrain joined the mission in the Arabian Gulf last month, joining Australia and the United Kingdom.
-
Pompeo, Saudi Deputy Defense Minister discuss enhancing maritime security
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Saudi Deputy Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman have discussed the need for stronger maritime security ... Gulf -
Pompeo talks maritime security, Iran with Saudi Crown Prince
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed maritime security, Iran and Yemen with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in a phone ... Gulf -
Saudi Arabia, US express concern over threats targeting maritime traffic freedom
Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister and US Energy Secretary met in Washington and discussed freedom of maritime traffic and security of global energy ... Energy -
Saudi ministers urge international community to defend regional maritime safety
During its weekly cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia’s Council of Ministers called on the international community to take the necessary ... Gulf