UN Security Council and European Union condemn Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia

NEW YORK — Members of the UN Security Council expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions in Yemen. They emphasized the critical importance of avoiding actions that could undermine peace efforts and threaten international peace and security.In a press statement, the Security Council members condemned Houthi missile attacks against Saudi Arabia launched since July 13 and against commercial vessels since July 22. They denounced the unauthorized aircraft landings at Sana’a International Airport on July 3 and Hodeidah Airport on July 13, conducted without Yemeni government permission and in violation of international civil aviation regulations. The members reaffirmed their commitment to Yemen’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity. They noted that all flights to Yemen airports must receive prior coordination and approval from the Yemeni government. The members highlighted the need to ensure safe, sustained air access for humanitarian and civilian purposes in accordance with international law and aviation regulations.The council emphasized compliance with international law and relevant resolutions, particularly Resolution 2216 prohibiting arms transfers and military assistance to sanctioned entities, including the Houthis. Noting the broader regional context, members warned that these actions threaten regional security, freedom of navigation, and peace efforts, urging the Houthis to refrain from escalation and utilize existing dialogue channels.Security Council members reiterated full support for UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg in his efforts to achieve a comprehensive, negotiated, Yemeni-led political settlement in accordance with relevant UN resolutions. Meanwhile, the European Union strongly condemned attacks carried out by the Houthi militia targeting Najran region of Saudi Arabia, alongside attacks on civilian facilities and infrastructure in Marib, Yemen, calling for an immediate end to the targeting of civilians.In a statement issued in Brussels, the EU spokesperson strongly condemned the recent strikes against Najran and Marib, reiterating that targeting civilians, facilities, and civilian infrastructure is unacceptable.The statement expressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government, warning that the attacks represent a dangerous escalation that further undermines regional stability and threatens ongoing efforts to reach a peaceful resolution to the Yemen conflict.