UNITED NATIONS: Reiterating that the situation in Yemen and the Red Sea was “closely” linked to the ongoing conflict in the besieged Palestinian enclave of Gaza, China has called on Yemen’s Houthis to “respect” the right to navigation of commercial vessels from all countries.
Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing, Chinese envoy to the UN Geng Shuang highlighted the enduring impact of the Gaza conflict, which has persisted for over seven months, causing significant Palestinian civilian casualties and humanitarian crises while also threatening regional peace and stability.
Addressing the Security Council following a briefing on Yemen by Martin Griffiths, head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Geng underscored the urgency of de-escalating tensions in the Red Sea to address the Yemeni crisis effectively.
“We call on the Houthis to respect the right of navigation for commercial vessels of all countries in the Red Sea in accordance with international law and to cease immediately relevant attacks,” stated Geng, as per a transcript of his statement delivered to the Council.
Highlighting the need for restraint and dialogue, Geng urged all parties involved to refrain from actions that could escalate tensions further, emphasizing the importance of political and diplomatic solutions in resolving the Yemeni issue.
