The coalition includes 5 African nations: Egypt, Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia.
The Saudi-led initiative comes at a time when security in the Red Sea remains fragile following months of attacks on commercial vessels. The disruptions have forced shipping companies to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, increasing transport costs and extending delivery times to African and European markets.
For Africa, the proposed alliance will enhance defense cooperation and protect the continent's key maritime trade routes. Egypt, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia are located along strategic maritime chokepoints, and Sudan's long Red Sea coastline is a vital link between North and East Africa.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, is one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. Any disruption in the area could directly affect trade, energy supplies, and food security across Africa. The alliance is expected to strengthen regional cooperation in combating piracy, arms smuggling, illegal fishing, and human trafficking.
