Egypt and Saudi Arabia Launch Joint Naval Exercise in the Red Sea.

Egypt and Saudi Arabia have announced the commencement of a joint naval exercise involving four Red Sea nations. Sudan, Djibouti, Yemen, and Jordan are among the countries confirmed to be participating in the operation. The Egyptian State Intelligence Service (SIS) did not comment on Eritrea’s involvement but stated that Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Sudan, Yemen, and Djibouti are officially taking part.

The exercise, titled Red Wave 8, began on November 11, 2025, and is scheduled to continue for several days. According to official statements, the operation will feature joint operational planning, simulation drills to counter unconventional maritime threats, and classroom-based training designed to standardize procedures among the participating naval forces.

The primary objective of Red Wave 8 is to enhance tactical skills and facilitate the exchange of professional expertise among the involved navies. A report by Somali outlet Hiran Online highlighted that regional countries, including Ethiopia, are closely monitoring the developments.

The report emphasized that Ethiopia is “watching closely” as the drills unfold, citing its ongoing efforts to secure port access despite its exclusion from the current Red Sea security framework.