Key points:
– UN Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari stated that no cause or grievance justifies Houthi attacks against freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and called for them to stop.
– He urged all concerned parties in the region to de-escalate tensions and threats and return to regular traffic flow to avoid Yemen being dragged into a regional conflict.
– IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasized that ships must be allowed to trade worldwide unhindered and in accordance with international law and called for de-escalation to ensure the safety of seafarers and stability of supply chains.
– France, which holds the presidency of the Council, highlighted the responsibility of the Houthis and those who support them for escalating tensions in the region and emphasized the importance of the peace process in Yemen.
– Russia blamed the US for covering up Israel’s actions and warned against putting out the crisis in the Red Sea with gasoline, referring to the US-led international maritime coalition aimed at deterring Houthi attacks.
– Algeria recognized the importance of the Red Sea route but cautioned against actions that could interfere with the work of the UN Special Envoy in Yemen and stressed the need to address the root causes of the conflict.
– The UK expressed its commitment to deterring threats to freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and warned that necessary actions will be taken if needed. They also called on Iran to prevent further attacks due to their support of the Houthis.
– Japan condemned the seizure and holding of the Japanese-operated Galaxy Leader and called for the Security Council to take appropriate action to deter further threats by the Houthis.
– The US called for a global response to the threat to navigational rights and freedoms in the Red Sea and highlighted the ongoing attacks by the Houthis and their implications for maritime security and humanitarian assistance in Yemen. They also pointed out Iran’s role in supporting the Houthi operations.
– The International Maritime Organization (IMO) chief emphasized the need to ensure the safety of seafarers.
