Saudi Arabia, with the participation of 13 other countries, announced the formation of a multinational naval defense coalition led by Riyadh; an action that Saudi officials say is intended to protect international shipping, trade routes, and energy transfers against escalating threats in the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden.

The coalition was announced as attacks and threats against commercial vessels, oil tankers, and the region’s maritime installations have increased, raising concerns about disruptions to one of the world’s most important trade corridors.

But how will the new coalition operate? Which countries are taking part? Does it differ from the existing international naval forces and missions in the region?

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Read this story on the BBC Persian website through the link.