As tensions between Houthi rebels and Israel escalate, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres is “deeply concerned” about the renewed airstrikes on Hudaydah Port conducted by Israel this Monday, Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told journalists in New York.
These strikes occurred while the UN Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement - established in 2018 to support the ceasefire between the Government of Yemen and the Houthis - was patrolling at locations to the northern parts of the Port.
The Secretary-General also expressed deep concern about the continuing missile and drone strikes conducted by the Houthis against Israel.
Concerned about the risk of further escalation, the UN recalled that international law, together with international humanitarian law, must be respected by all parties at all times, including the obligations to respect and protect civilian infrastructure.
“The Secretary-General remains profoundly concerned about the risk of further escalation in the region,” said Mr. Dujarric.
As the UN Chief reiterated his call for “all involved to cease all military actions and exercise maximum restraint,” he also renewed his call for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN and other personnel arbitrarily detained by the Houthi rebels.