Manama: Major General Turki Al Malki, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, stated that the announcement of the Multinational Maritime Defence Coalition reflects a shared international understanding of the threats facing maritime security and freedom of navigation, embodying a collective responsibility to protect maritime routes and global economic interests.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Major General Al Malki emphasized in a statement to the media, carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), that both real and emerging threats are faced by the region and the world. He highlighted the right of every country to take necessary military or political measures to protect its interests and address these threats. He also mentioned the ongoing coordination among countries bordering the Red Sea to enhance the security of maritime routes and protect shared interests.
He pointed out that, through its experience in the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen, Saudi Arabia has made progress in eliminating maritime threats, such as countering drones, fast boats, and naval mines. He reiterated that maintaining maritime security is a collective responsibility extending beyond coastal states to all countries benefiting from secure and stable maritime routes.
Major General Al Malki underscored the importance of protecting international shipping lanes and oil tankers for global economic stability. He noted that any terrorist acts or threats targeting maritime security affect the international community, making stronger international cooperation and coordination necessary to counter these threats and ensure the security and stability of maritime routes.