Jeddah (HRNW)- Representatives of 39 countries participating in the Saudi-led Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition (MMDC) attended the coalition’s third planning meeting in Jeddah, as the alliance moves closer to becoming a regular operational maritime security force.
According to the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the meeting was held on Thursday at the headquarters of the Western Fleet Command in Jeddah. Representatives discussed the coalition’s future operational structure, command system and the integration of military capabilities among participating countries.
According to SPA, 15 of the 39 countries have signed the coalition’s joint declaration, while 13 countries have formally joined the MMDC by signing its charter after completing their respective national legal procedures.
The remaining participating countries are continuing their internal approval processes. Once these procedures are completed, the coalition’s membership and operational structure are expected to expand further.
The development indicates that the Saudi-led maritime defense initiative is moving beyond the planning and formation stage, with practical steps being taken toward establishing a joint operational command and integrating personnel and defense capabilities from participating countries.
The coalition is gaining importance amid growing security challenges facing commercial shipping, oil transportation and major maritime routes in the Middle East.
The Saudi-led initiative seeks to bring participating countries together for maritime security, protection of sea lanes and joint defense cooperation. Once fully operational, the alliance could further strengthen coordination among member states in maritime defense and security.
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