An official at the Saudi Ministry of Defense announced that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has decided to join the International Maritime Security Construct, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

The IMSC aims to protect commercial vessels by ensuring the right of the freedom of navigation, provide safety for international trade, and protect the interests of allied countries.

The IMSC’s area of operation covers the Straits of Hormuz and Bab Al Mandab, as well as the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Gulf.

The Kingdom’s decision to participate is based on its declared support for regional and international efforts to deter threats to maritime safety.

The Kingdom will work with its allies to ensure the security of energy routes and the continued flow of supplies to the global economy, and to maintain international peace and security.

Earlier this week, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said that the unprecedented act of aggression and sabotage targeting petroleum facilities in the Kingdom that are vital for global energy supplies resulted in the suspension of approximately 50% of Saudi Aramco’s production, as noted by the Ministry of Energy’s statement.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed its appreciation for the positions taken by the international community that have condemned and denounced this act.  The Kingdom called upon the international community to assume its responsibility in condemning those that stand behind this act, and to take a firm and clear position against this reckless behavior that threatens the global economy, SPA added.

As the investigations are ongoing, the Kingdom will invite UN and International experts to view the situation on the ground and to participate in the investigations. The Kingdom will take the appropriate measures based on the results of the investigation, to ensure its security and stability. The Kingdom affirmed that it has the capability and resolve to defend its land and people, and to forcefully respond to these aggressions.