UN Security Council calls on Houthi rebels to cease attacks on ships in Red Sea
The UN Security Council urged the Houthis to cease attacks on ships in the Red Sea (photo: Getty Images)
Members of the UN Security Council have urged Yemeni Houthi rebels to cease attacks on ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, stating that the assaults are unlawful and threaten regional stability, freedom of navigation, and global security, according to Reuters.
Speaking at the first official meeting of the council in 2024, its members also demanded that the Houthis release the cargo ship Galaxy Leader, associated with an Israeli company, and its crew, which the group seized on November 19.
Some members of the Security Council also called on the council to take measures to stop the rocket attacks and drone strikes by the Houthis. However, before initiating closed consultations, the body took no official steps during the open session.
U.S. representative to the UN, Chris Lu, stated that the situation had reached a tipping point according to the White House.
"These attacks pose grave implications for maritime security, international shipping and commerce, and they undermine the fragile humanitarian situation in Yemen," said Lu.
The United States and other countries formed the military-naval operational group Operation Prosperity Guardian last month to protect civilian ships.
A few hours before the Security Council meeting, the U.S. and 12 other countries warned in a joint statement that the Houthis bear responsibility for the consequences if the attacks continue.
During the UN Security Council meeting, representatives from the United States, Britain, and Israel accused Iran of supporting Houthi attacks.
Japanese representative Kazuyuki Yamazaki was among those calling on the council to take measures to halt the attacks, although he did not specify what steps should be taken.
"Japan believes the Security Council should take an appropriate action to deter additional threats by the Houthis and maintain international peace and security," he said.
Houthi attacks on civilian ships
Since November, Yemeni Houthi rebels have continued to launch attacks on civilian ships in the Red Sea with connections to Israel.
This occurs against the backdrop of Israel's war with HAMAS, supported by Yemeni militants.
On December 12, it was revealed that a Houthi missile struck the commercial tanker Strinda, causing a fire and serious damage.
A few days ago, Britain announced its readiness to strike the Houthis if such attacks persist.
