UN Security Council Condemns Houthi Escalation and Threats to International Maritime Security

The United Nations Security Council has issued a formal condemnation of the military escalation by Houthi forces in Yemen, warning that these actions pose a severe threat to civilians, regional stability, and international maritime commerce.

In a statement released on Friday, the Council demanded an immediate cessation of hostilities and the unconditional release of all detainees, including 73 United Nations personnel. Members reaffirmed their steadfast support for the internationally recognized Yemeni government and emphasized the necessity of upholding Yemen’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity in accordance with Resolution 2216 and subsequent mandates.

The Council explicitly condemned ongoing Houthi strikes targeting Saudi Arabia, which have caused civilian casualties and damaged critical energy infrastructure. Furthermore, the members expressed grave concern regarding threats to commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, asserting that such actions violate international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The Council cautioned that continued aggression risks expanding the scope of the conflict and undermining global trade security.

Highlighting the deteriorating humanitarian crisis, the Council noted that at least 125,000 individuals have been displaced in Yemen since September. The members called upon all parties to facilitate the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid and to ensure the safety of aid workers and diplomatic staff. They reiterated that the detention of international and local organization employees is unacceptable and must be resolved immediately.

Concluding the statement, the Security Council emphasized that a sustainable peace in Yemen cannot be achieved through the use of force. Members pledged their full support for the efforts of UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg to reach a comprehensive, Yemeni-led political settlement. The Council urged all parties to engage constructively in the diplomatic process to end the conflict and restore regional stability.