Jeddah hosted the third planning meeting of the multinational naval defense coalition at the Western Fleet Command headquarters, with representatives from 39 countries attending.
According to SPA, the meeting serves as a step toward activating the coalition. To date, 15 countries have signed the coalition’s joint statement, while 13 countries have completed their national procedures, signed the coalition charter, and officially announced their membership.
The coalition’s institutional structure is progressing, including the appointment of a commander from Saudi Arabia and an agreement that the first deputy commander will be from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. A dedicated headquarters and a logo have been approved, alongside the completion of organizational frameworks, planning, and reference documents.
The meeting assisted in completing operational arrangements to activate the multinational command structure. This prepares the coalition to receive specialized officers and forces from member states to be integrated into the joint command and staff, the joint maritime operations and coordination center, and the coalition information center.
The coalition aims to strengthen collective maritime security, protect freedom of navigation in sea lanes and straits, and support international trade and global supply chains.