Jeddah: Fifteen countries have signed a statement to establish a multinational maritime defense coalition, the Saudi Defense Ministry announced Thursday.

According to Anadolu Agency, the coalition was officially launched after the third planners' meeting held in Jeddah. The Saudi Defense Ministry revealed that 13 countries have completed their national procedures, signed the coalition charter, and officially announced their accession. A statement shared on US social media company X highlighted the steps taken towards the coalition's institutional and operational activation, with more countries in the process of joining.

The coalition will be led by a Saudi commander, with Pakistan providing the deputy commander, marking a significant step in international maritime collaboration. The initiative, announced on July 30 by Saudi Arabia and 13 other countries, aims to safeguard freedom of navigation, international trade, and energy supply routes in key strategic areas such as the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.

On August 6, Saudi Rear Adm. Abdullah bin Salem Al-Shehri was appointed as the coalition commander, further solidifying Saudi Arabia's leadership role in this multinational effort.