Saudi Arabia is pursuing the creation of an international coalition to safeguard commercial shipping in the Red Sea against attacks by Ansar Allah, better known as the Houthis, according to two sources familiar with the discussions.
The sources told Reuters that Riyadh is consulting dozens of governments on the initiative, although the final composition of any coalition has yet to be determined.
Saudi authorities did not immediately comment on the report.
Naval blockade escalates tensions
The Houthis announced on 20 July their intention to impose a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, describing the move as retaliation for what they called a Saudi blockade of Yemen, an allegation rejected by Riyadh.
The Iran-aligned group subsequently claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi-linked vessels operating in the Red Sea.
Saudi Arabia responded with air strikes targeting what it described as Houthi military facilities at the port of Hodeidah.
New threat to global shipping
The confrontation has opened a new front in the broader Middle East conflict and raised fresh concerns over maritime security.
The developments come as Iran is accused of effectively restricting navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, increasing pressure on two of the world's most strategically important shipping routes.
The combination of instability in both waterways has heightened concerns about energy markets and global trade flows.
US-Saudi consultations
Meanwhile, US news website Axios reported that US President Donald Trump met Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, brother of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to discuss regional developments.
According to the report, Prince Khalid delivered a message from the crown prince during talks that took place hours after joint US-Saudi strikes in Iraq against Iran-backed armed groups.
