The UN Security Council expressed concern over the escalating tensions in Yemen, emphasizing the importance of avoiding actions that could undermine peace efforts in the country and threaten international peace and security.
In a press statement released yesterday evening, Security Council members condemned the unauthorized landing of aircraft at Sanaa International Airport on July 3rd and at Hodeidah Airport on the 13th of the same month, without permits and approvals from the Yemeni government, which violates international civil aviation rules.
They also condemned the missile attacks launched by the Houthis on Saudi Arabia since July 13th and on commercial ships since the 22nd of last month.
Security Council members reiterated their strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of Yemen. They stressed the importance of respecting Yemen's sovereignty, including over its land and airspace, affirming that all flights to Yemeni airports must be coordinated with and receive prior approval from the Yemeni government.
The members also emphasized the need to ensure safe and sustainable air access, in coordination with the Yemeni government, for humanitarian and civilian purposes in accordance with international law and relevant international civil aviation rules.
Security Council members underscored the importance of acting in accordance with international law and the Council's relevant resolutions, particularly Resolution 2216, which prohibits the supply, sale, or transfer of arms and related materiel, technical or financial assistance linked to military activities to individuals and entities listed by the 2140 Sanctions Committee, including the Houthis.
Security Council members pointed to the broader regional context, affirming that these actions threaten regional security, freedoms, and navigational rights, and risk further escalation and undermining efforts to secure peace in the region, including Yemen.
They urged the Houthis to refrain from escalation and encouraged the use of existing dialogue channels to address concerns and de-escalate tensions.
Security Council members also stressed their support for the UN Special Envoy, Hans Grundberg, in his efforts to reach a comprehensive negotiated political settlement led and owned by Yemen, based on agreed references and in line with relevant Security Council resolutions.
