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The Saudi Defense Ministry reported Thursday that the Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition reached initial operational capability during its fourth planning meeting in Jeddah attended by representatives from 41 countries. The session at the Western Fleet Command drew 154 naval commanders, planners, ambassadors and European Union representatives who coordinated capabilities for the designated maritime area of responsibility. Participants examined progress since the prior gathering while several states completed signing the coalition charter and joint statement. The ministry stated that the coalition is now integrating national contributions ahead of physical deployment to execute missions under unified command.
The coalition maintains 28 liaison officers at its Saudi headquarters while participating nations identify specific assets they will provide for coordinated defensive operations. This stage centers on elevating readiness levels so forces can function seamlessly together once deployed. Several additional countries continue internal processes required to formalize their involvement in the alliance.
Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia unveiled the coalition on July 30 after hosting an initial meeting in Riyadh that brought together representatives from 43 countries along with a European Union delegation. Fourteen founding members including Egypt, Pakistan, Turkiye and a number of Gulf and African states issued a joint statement pledging to safeguard navigation and trade routes. The Kingdom was selected as the leading state and site of the permanent headquarters under the agreed framework.
Arab News reported that the third planning meeting held in August assembled representatives from 39 countries and produced agreements on command appointments with Saudi Rear Adm. Abdullah bin Salem Al-Shehri selected as overall commander. A Pakistani commodore was named deputy while 15 countries signed the joint statement and 13 completed charter procedures. The alliance has stayed open to further members that endorse its focus on collective security for vital sea lanes.
The fourth meeting shifted emphasis from foundational setup to operational execution following achievement of initial capability. Attendees concentrated on preparations for a tangible presence in the area of operations spanning the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb Strait and Gulf of Aden. The ministry noted that the coalition addresses threats to international shipping through shared resources and integrated planning among participants.
Planners reviewed how signed commitments from member states will translate into joint missions at sea during the Jeddah discussions. The coalition’s structure supports defensive activities in line with United Nations conventions and established maritime customs according to the ministry. This latest gathering builds directly on decisions taken at the two previous planning sessions that expanded participation and refined command arrangements.
