Maldives has joined the defensive alliance created by Saudi Arabia to watch over the security and safety of the main straits being used by gulf nations to transport goods via sea.

The main purpose of the Saudi-led alliance with 13 other countries, named the "Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition", is to ensure freedom of navigation through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden, along with safeguarding routes that supply energy and international trade.

Chief of Defense Force Ibrahim Hilmy signed the coalition charter on behalf of Maldives during the ceremony held at the Bandaara Koshi (Maldives National Defence Force HQ) joining the alliance.

Parliament approved of Maldives joining the alliance last month.

According to the Ministry of Defense, Maldives joining the alliance would further strengthen relations between Maldives and Saudi Arabia, ensure the safety of maritime routes where goods are brought to Maldives and further expand Maldives' role in protecting its interests.

The countries that formed the alliance said participation in its activities is a sovereign decision for each member state. They also said the alliance will operate in accordance with international law, respect each nation’s sovereignty and seek to safeguard freedom of navigation.

Saudi Arabia founded the alliance and will lead it, with the permanent headquarters of the alliance located there as well.

The countries that have joined the coalition so far, in addition to Saudi Arabia, include Turkey, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, Egypt, Pakistan, Djibouti, Somalia, Bangladesh, Yemen, and Comoros.

The coalition was formed at a time when the Iranian-backed Houthi group in Yemen declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia last July, subsequently launching attacks on vessels linked to Saudi Arabia and increasing threats to commercial vessels in the Red Sea, with Saudi Arabia retaliating against the Houthi rebels.