In a move reflecting the depth of the strategic partnership and military cooperation between the two brotherly countries, the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and the Royal Omani Naval Forces successfully conducted live-fire missile and ammunition exercises as part of the prominent bilateral naval exercise “Winds of Peace 2026”, which is being hosted by the Sultanate of Oman.

This exercise comes as part of a series of joint drills aimed at standardizing operational concepts and enhancing cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries, serving the security objectives of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. These maneuvers are of particular importance given their location in a vital maritime region that serves as a major artery for global trade and energy, making its security a top priority for regional and international security.

The exercise, which was attended by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Ghuraibi, and the Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman, Rear Admiral Saif bin Nasser Al Rahbi, witnessed the execution of a series of advanced operational scenarios. These scenarios simulated the latest patterns of naval operations, including dealing with surface and air threats, tactics for protecting vital maritime shipping lanes, and operations to combat illicit activities at sea.

The exercise involved a large naval and air force consisting of 10 advanced combat ships from both countries, in addition to helicopters specializing in logistical support and offensive operations, and two platoons of special naval security units, reflecting the scale and seriousness of the exercise in testing combat capabilities and raising the level of readiness to deal with various potential security challenges.

The “Peace Winds 2026” exercise not only enhances the military capabilities of the participating forces, but also sends a clear message about the commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman to maintaining the security and stability of the region’s waterways. It also contributes to strengthening the confidence of the international community and global shipping companies in the safety of these waterways, which in turn supports the stability of the global economy and the prosperity of the region.

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomes the statement issued regarding the ceasefire agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This welcome comes in light of the agreement's pivotal role as a step that could contribute to turning a page in the complex conflict that the country has been witnessing for years.

In an official statement, the Ministry expressed the Kingdom's hope that this comprehensive agreement, which includes integrating self-governing institutions into Syrian state institutions, will contribute to Syria's progress toward achieving lasting peace, security, and stability. The statement affirmed that this step aligns with the aspirations of the brotherly Syrian people to build a secure and prosperous future and strengthen their national unity and territorial integrity.

Background of the conflict and the importance of the agreement

This agreement comes in the context of a devastating civil war that began in 2011 and has led to deep geographical and political divisions. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), whose backbone is the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG), have emerged as a major force in northern and eastern Syria, particularly after their pivotal role in the war against the ISIS terrorist group, with support from the US-led international coalition. Over the past years, the SDF has administered large areas through the “Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria,” creating a complex political and military reality that is relatively independent of the authority of the central government in Damascus.

Potential impacts at the local and regional levels

The agreement holds significant strategic importance. Domestically, integrating the self-governing institutions into the state structure could lead to the reassertion of Syrian sovereignty over all its territory, unify governance, and redirect resources toward reconstruction and development rather than conflict. It also paves the way for a comprehensive political settlement that guarantees the rights of all components of the Syrian people. Regionally, stability in northeastern Syria reduces the likelihood of foreign intervention and alleviates the concerns of neighboring countries, particularly Turkey, which views the influence of Kurdish forces along its borders with apprehension.

International support and diplomatic efforts

In closing, the Kingdom reiterated its full support for all efforts undertaken by the Syrian government to preserve its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The Kingdom also commended the responsiveness of both the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces to the diplomatic efforts it exerted, alongside the efforts led by the United States, which were instrumental in establishing a ceasefire and reaching this historic agreement. This development reflects a shift in regional and international dynamics and underscores the importance of dialogue and a political settlement as the only way to achieve a sustainable end to the Syrian crisis.