US Marine General Kenneth McKenzie has welcomed Saudi Arabia's decision to join a US-led coalition of states that will seek to secure the vital waterways of the Middle East (IMSC).
McKenzie praised Riyadh’s decision to join the IMSC and take an active role in preserving the freedom of navigation, promoting maritime security, and de-escalating regional tensions.
He added, in a statement, “We appreciate the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s leading role in regional security matters and welcome their commitment to preserving the free flow of commerce, which is a linchpin of the global economy."
"Threats to the freedom of navigation are an international problem requiring an international solution, and we are pleased that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be joining as part of that solution," McKenzie continued.
The alliance covers areas that include the Strait of Hormuz, Bab al-Mandab, Sea of Oman, and the Arabian Gulf. The US formed the coalition after attacks on oil tankers blamed on Iran and its militias, especially Tehran seizure of a UK oil tanker.
The UAE became part of the alliance earlier.
Salem Al Zaabi, director of the International Security Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said that the UAE's accession to the alliance aims to secure the flow of energy supplies to the global economy and contribute to maintaining international peace and security.
