Riyadh, July 31 (SANA) Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa discussed regional developments and efforts to strengthen security and stability during a phone call on Thursday.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), King Hamad congratulated the Saudi crown prince on the establishment of a multinational maritime defense alliance and Saudi Arabia’s selection to lead the alliance and host its permanent headquarters.
The Bahraini king said the formation of the alliance reflected international confidence in Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting collective maritime security.
The two leaders also discussed several issues of mutual interest during the call.
The Saudi Ministry of Defense announced earlier on Thursday the creation of the alliance, saying it aims to enhance maritime security, protect international shipping routes, and safeguard freedom of navigation and global trade.
The announcement of the multinational maritime defense alliance comes amid growing security concerns in key waterways in the Middle East, including the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Strait of Hormuz, which are vital routes for global energy shipments and international trade.
The region’s maritime routes have faced heightened security risks, including attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthi militia and tensions involving Iran in the Strait of Hormuz amid broader U.S.-Iran tensions.
The Gulf region remains a major hub for global energy exports, with the Strait of Hormuz serving as one of the world’s most important oil and gas transit routes, while the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb provide a critical link between Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
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