Saudi Arabia says it is working to build an international coalition to protect shipping in the Red Sea, a route that is critical for global trade and regional energy flows. The move comes amid continued attacks on commercial vessels by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.

According to the announcement, dozens of countries have been invited to join the effort. The stated goal is to strengthen maritime security and reduce the risk to ships using one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.

The plan reflects growing concern that instability around Yemen is spilling further into international shipping lanes. By seeking a broad alliance rather than acting alone, Saudi Arabia appears to be signaling that the threat is not only a regional security issue but also a matter of wider economic importance.

The proposed coalition is centered on defending vessels from further disruption in the Red Sea. With attacks on shipping drawing global attention, the Saudi initiative highlights rising pressure to coordinate a multinational response to protect navigation in the area.