Saudi Arabia Announces International Counterterrorism Force

Saudi officials announced today the formation of a 34-nation coalition to fight terrorism. The force will be based in Riyadh and include contributions from the Gulf Cooperation Council nations, Egypt, and Turkey, among others. All the participating countries belong to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and at least 10 other Muslim-majority countries have expressed interest in joining the force. Iran, Syria, and Iraq are not part of the coalition. The goal of the force will be to address "the Islamic world's problem with terrorism and will be a partner in the worldwide fight against this scourge" Saudi Defence Minister and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said at a press conference.