The UN Security Council strongly condemned a recent escalation of attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi militia on Saudi Arabia, calling the strikes unacceptable and dangerous. Council members warned the actions risk expanding the conflict, threatening maritime security and international trade and undermining peace efforts in Yemen. Recent moves include intensified missile and drone strikes, a blockade of Saudi vessels, and the seizure of territory on Yemen’s western coast near the Bab al‑Mandab Strait.
UN Security Council Condemns Escalating Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia
FILE PHOTO - A Yemen's Houthi supporter brandishes a rifle during a demonstration against the United States and Israel in Sana'a. (is associated with: «UN Security Council condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia») Osamah Yahya/dpa
The UN Security Council on Friday issued a strong rebuke of a recent surge in attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi militia against Saudi Arabia, warning the strikes threaten regional stability and international commerce.
What the Council Said
Council members condemned the Houthi actions “in the strongest terms,” saying the continued missile and drone strikes, together with a blockade on commercial vessels, risked expanding the conflict and imperiling maritime security and global trade.
“These actions risk further expanding the conflict, threatening maritime security and international trade, and undermining regional and international efforts to secure peace in Yemen,” the joint statement said.
Background
The decade-long conflict in Yemen pits the Iran-backed Houthi movement against the internationally recognized government supported by Saudi Arabia. The fighting has repeatedly threatened civilian populations and critical shipping lanes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Recent Developments
In recent weeks the Houthis have intensified missile and drone attacks on Saudi territory and imposed a blockade affecting Saudi vessels. Earlier this month they captured territory along Yemen’s western coast in a rapid offensive, gaining access to the strategically vital Bab al‑Mandab Strait — a chokepoint for maritime traffic between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
The Security Council’s statement underscores international concern about escalation and calls for de‑escalation and unhindered maritime access while urging renewed efforts to secure a political solution in Yemen.
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