Saudi Arabia is actively seeking to establish an international coalition to protect shipping lanes in the Red Sea from attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement, according to people familiar with the discussions who spoke to Reuters. The coalition's composition remains under negotiation with dozens of countries.
On July 20, the Houthis announced a maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia, accusing Riyadh of imposing “an unjust and oppressive siege” on Yemen for nearly 12 years, which they say involves plundering resources and enforcing a comprehensive blockade. Since this announcement, the Houthis have claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi vessels in the Red Sea.
The escalation has contributed to rising oil prices as strikes on energy tankers expand. Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, has engaged in diplomatic talks with counterparts from Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, who emphasized the importance of efforts to de-escalate tensions.
Additional regional dynamics include concerns expressed by Yemen’s Foreign Minister that the Houthis aim to emulate Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz in the Red Sea. Meanwhile, regional hostilities have intensified with incidents involving Iran, the US, Jordan, and Iraq.
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