UN Security Council Condemns Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia and Commercial Ships
- Condemned the landing of unauthorized aircraft in Yemeni airports; warned of threats to regional security and freedom of navigation
The UN Security Council condemned the missile attacks launched by the Houthis against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and commercial vessels, and denounced the landing of aircraft without prior authorization at Yemeni airports, warning that these developments threaten regional security and freedom of navigation and undermine peace-building efforts.
In a statement on Friday, the Council said its members expressed concern over escalating tensions in Yemen and emphasized the need to avoid any actions that could undermine peace efforts or threaten international security and stability.
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Council members condemned the unauthorized landings at Sana’a International Airport on July 3 and Al-Hudaydah Airport on July 13, stressing that these flights occurred without obtaining the necessary permits and approvals from the Yemeni government, in violation of international civil aviation rules.
The Council also condemned the Houthi missile attacks on Saudi Arabia since July 13, as well as attacks targeting commercial ships since July 22.
Council members reaffirmed their commitment to Yemen’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity, emphasizing the necessity of respecting its sovereignty over its territory and airspace, and coordinating all flights to Yemeni airports with the government and obtaining prior authorization.
At the same time, the Council stressed the need to ensure safe and sustainable air access to meet humanitarian and civilian needs, in coordination with the Yemeni government and in accordance with international law and applicable civil aviation regulations.
It underscored the necessity for all parties to comply with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 2216 (2015), which prohibits the supply, sale, or transfer of arms and related matériel, as well as the provision of technical or financial assistance related to military activities to individuals and entities designated by the Council’s Sanctions Committee, including the Houthis.
The Council warned that recent developments threaten regional security and the rights and freedoms of navigation, signaling further escalation and undermining efforts to achieve peace in Yemen and the region.
It urged the Houthis to refrain from escalation and called for utilizing existing dialogue channels to address concerns and reduce tensions.
The UN Security Council reaffirmed its support for the UN Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, and his efforts to reach a comprehensive political settlement through Yemen-led negotiations, based on agreed reference points and relevant Security Council resolutions.
