Saudi Arabia, 13 other nations agree to maritime defence alliance amid Red Sea attacks

In response to growing threats from Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, Saudi Arabia has established a new maritime defense coalition focused on securing crucial shipping lanes. This alliance will improve surveillance capabilities and synchronize naval operations in the Red Sea, particularly around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a pivotal point for international trade. Heightened Houthi activities have raised the stakes and tensions in the area.