Saudi Arabia has warned that attacks by Yemen’s Houthi group are endangering maritime security in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb, calling for coordinated international action to safeguard major shipping routes.
Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Abdulaziz Alwasil, delivered the Kingdom’s position during a UN Security Council session on Wednesday, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
“Protecting maritime corridors and ensuring freedom of navigation are shared international responsibilities that require adherence to international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” the Saudi statement said.
Riyadh warned that continued threats to vessels operating in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb could disrupt international commerce and global supply chains.
The Kingdom also pointed to the multinational defensive maritime coalition launched in July, saying the initiative was intended to strengthen regional maritime security and protect freedom of navigation through strategically important waterways.
The Houthis announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia in July amid escalating regional hostilities.
Saudi Arabia has led a coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government since March 2015. The Houthis, who are accused of receiving Iranian support, have controlled the capital Sanaa and several other parts of Yemen since 2014.
Recent hostilities have included attacks on Saudi vessels as well as strikes inside the Kingdom, including against energy infrastructure. Some of those attacks have resulted in civilian injuries and property damage.
The maritime tensions are unfolding alongside the wider regional conflict that began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran in late February. Iran has since launched missiles and drones towards Saudi Arabia, saying it was targeting American interests in the Kingdom.
Saudi authorities have disputed that characterisation, saying the strikes have hit civilian infrastructure and, in some instances, facilities connected to the Kingdom’s energy sector.