UN Chief Decries Resumption of Houthi Attacks on Civilian Vessels in Red Sea
UN Chief Decries Resumption of Houthi Attacks on Civilian Vessels in Red Sea
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has vehemently condemned the Houthis’ renewed assaults on civilian ships in the Red Sea, Xinhua reported quoting his spokesman’s announcement on Friday.
The condemnation follows the sinking of two commercial vessels, which resulted in the deaths of at least four crew members and injuries to several others. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric characterized these incidents as a “dangerous re-escalation in this critical waterway.”
With reports indicating at least 15 crew members are currently missing, Guterres has urged the Houthis to refrain from any actions that could hinder ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
“Beyond being an unacceptable attack on the safety and security of seafarers, these acts also violated the freedom of navigation, caused a hazard to maritime transport and represent a serious risk of significant environmental, economic and humanitarian damage to an already vulnerable coastal environment,” Dujarric stated.
Guterres underscored the imperative for all parties to consistently uphold international law.
The UN, Dujarric added, remains dedicated to its efforts toward broader de-escalation in the region. This includes continued engagement with Yemeni, regional, and international stakeholders to achieve a lasting and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen.
