UN Chief Calls for Immediate Halt to Houthi Red Sea Attacks, Warns Against Regional Escalation
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged Yemen’s Houthi rebels to immediately stop attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, warning that continued assaults could deepen the conflict in the Middle East and pull Yemen further into regional instability.
In a statement issued through UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres called for an immediate de-escalation and urged the Houthis to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2722 and other relevant resolutions aimed at protecting international shipping.
The UN chief stressed that freedom of navigation through the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes, must be fully restored to ensure the safe movement of commercial vessels.
Fresh Houthi attacks raise concerns
The appeal came after the Houthis claimed responsibility for fresh attacks on two Saudi oil tankers earlier this week, marking one of the most significant escalations in the Red Sea in recent months.
The attacks have renewed concerns over the security of global shipping routes, with international observers warning that any disruption in the region could affect global trade and energy supplies.
UN envoy warns of wider conflict
UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg also expressed concern over the latest attacks, cautioning that continued military action could push Yemen back into a full-scale conflict after years of efforts to reduce violence.
He urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further destabilize the region.
Bab Al-Mandab under renewed spotlight
The Bab Al-Mandab Strait, which connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, has become a key geopolitical flashpoint alongside the Strait of Hormuz amid heightened tensions involving the United States and Iran.
Reports have suggested that Iran has asked the Houthis to prepare for possible disruption of maritime traffic through Bab Al-Mandab if the conflict with Washington intensifies further.
US warns of military response
US President Donald Trump has also issued a strong warning, saying any further attacks on international commercial shipping in the region would invite a “major military” response.
The latest developments have heightened concerns that instability in the Red Sea could further escalate regional tensions and threaten one of the world’s most critical maritime trade corridors.
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