UAE Joins Us-Led International Maritime Security Alliance

The United Arab Emirates UAE has joined the US-led International Maritime Security alliance that aims to protect merchant ships and ensure freedom of maritime navigation and international trade.

The alliance is currently made up of the US, UK, Australia, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Its operation covers the Strait of Hormuz, Bab al-Mandab, the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Gulf, WAM said.

Salem Al Zaabi, Director of the Department of Security Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that the UAE joined the coalition to “ensure global energy security and the continued flow of energy supplies to the global economy.”

Saudi Arabia joined the same alliance on Wednesday.

The move comes amid tensions in the Arabian Gulf. Several oil tankers have been attacked in Gulf waters this year. Washington and Riyadh have blamed Iran for the explosive blasts, a charge Tehran denies.

The US formed the coalition after attacks on oil tankers that American officials blame on Iran, as well as Iran's seizure of tankers in the region. Iran denies being behind the tanker explosions.

The International Maritime Security Construct's area of operation covers the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most critical waterway for oil supplies, the Strait of Bab al-Mandab, and the Gulf of Oman. The move aims to support efforts to thwart threats to trade as well as guarantee energy security,

The Saudi oil installation attack Saturday has further heightened Mideast tensions.

Iranian authorities previously boasted that their forces can seize any ship, any time, even if accompanied by American or British forces.