TDT | Manama
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Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense has announced that the Saudi-led Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition has finalized arrangements to activate its command structure and integrate officers and personnel from participating countries into its maritime and intelligence operations.
The announcement came during the coalition’s third planning meeting in Jeddah, attended by representatives from 39 countries. Pakistan has been selected to provide the coalition’s first deputy commander, while Saudi Rear Adm. Abdullah bin Salem Al-Shehri serves as commander.
The coalition has designated its headquarters, approved an official logo and completed key organizational and planning frameworks. It aims to strengthen maritime security, protect freedom of navigation and safeguard international trade and supply chains.
Its focus will include the Red Sea, Bab El-Mandeb Strait and Gulf of Aden, vital waterways linking Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Officials said the next phase will prioritize operational readiness and defensive missions, while respecting international law, state sovereignty and freedom of navigation.
