UN security Council debates US and UK action in the Red Sea

The United Nations Security Council witnessed heated debates as Russia and China accused the United States and Britain of illegal actions in the Red Sea.

Accusations and counterarguments

During the Council meeting, the U.S. and UK ambassadors defended their actions, stating that the strikes on Houthi targets were taken in self-defense and were proportionate and legal. UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward highlighted the impact of Houthi attacks on global shipping and the costs to food supplies and humanitarian aid in the region. On the other hand, Russia’s deputy U.N. ambassador Dmitry Polyansky and China’s U.N. envoy Zhang Jun argued that the U.N. Security Council had not authorized any military action against Yemen.

Houthi attacks and international response

The Houthi rebels have targeted ships in the Red Sea, endangering a crucial trade route connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe. The United States and the United Kingdom, supported by other allies, have responded with airstrikes targeting Houthi missile arsenals and launch sites. The U.S. envoy, Robert Wood, emphasized the need to disrupt and degrade the Houthis’ ability to continue their attacks against vessels and commercial shipping in the region.

International efforts and concerns

U.N. envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg mentioned promising efforts to restore peace in Yemen but expressed concerns about the U.S. and UK attacks on Houthi targets. He emphasized the need to protect the political space, keep communication channels open, and ensure the active engagement of all actors.

Humanitarian crisis in Yemen

Yemen continues to face a dire humanitarian crisis, with over half of the population in need of humanitarian aid. The funding for humanitarian aid in Yemen has been insufficient, posing significant challenges in addressing the severe food insecurity and malnutrition faced by millions of Yemenis.

The future course of action

Despite the disagreements and complex dynamics involved, the U.N. special envoy emphasized the imperative nature of continuing efforts to restore peace in Yemen. The debates in the Security Council shed light on the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis and finding a sustainable resolution to the conflicts impacting the region.