UN Security Council condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia

Council issues joint statement

French UN envoy Jerome Bonnafont delivered the joint statement condemning continued attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The council expressed concern over impacts on civilian and energy infrastructure which have resulted in injuries to civilians, including women and children. Members demanded an immediate end to military escalation and called for the upholding of navigation rights.

Houthis impose naval blockade

Yemen's Houthis have imposed a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia by hitting tankers and seizing parts of the Red Sea coast. These actions threaten vital oil exports and have caused energy prices to jump significantly. The group is also raining missiles on the kingdom while displacing people across Yemen since early September.

Refugee chief warns of crisis

Barham Salih told the council that ordinary Yemenis are paying the heaviest price for the ongoing conflict. He reported growing numbers of people crossing into Djibouti to escape the fighting and warned of a fresh exodus. The situation threatens a humanitarian crisis as displacement continues to rise.